Gnaphalium indicum

Many Stem Cudweed

Asteraceae Edible: Leaves

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Summary

A compact annual herb growing to 0.2 m (6 in) with hermaphroditic insect-pollinated flowers. Suitable for sandy and loamy soils with good drainage. Tolerates mildly acidic, neutral, and basic soil pH. Can grow in semi-shade or full sun and adapts to dry or moist soil.

Description

A herb. It grows each year from seed. The flower heads are smaller than Jersey cudweed and more leafy. The leaves are soft and limp.

This description is brief — help expand it

Edible Uses

Leaves are edible cooked.

Traditional Uses

The leaves are eaten as a pot-herb. They are also used raw as a dressing.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Medicinal Uses

None known

Distribution

A tropical plant.

Where It Grows

Asia, Australia, China, India, Indochina, Myanmar, Northeastern India, SE Asia, Vietnam,

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species but it should succeed as a spring-sown annual in Britain. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Requires a well-drained soil in a sunny position.

Propagation

Sow seed in late spring directly in situ, covering only just barely.

Other Uses

None known

Notes

There are about 200 Gnaphalium species.

Also Known As

Byaing-che, Phunil, Taw-dawna

References (7)

Ambasta, S.P. (Ed.), 2000, The Useful Plants of India. CSIR India. p 241
Jain et al, 2011, Dietary Use and Conservation Concern of Edible Wetland Plants at Indo-Burma Hotspot: A Case Study from Northeast India. Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 7:29 p 7 (? As Nephalium indicum)
Konsam, S., et al, 2016, Assessment of wild leafy vegetables traditionally consumed by the ethnic communities of Manipur, northeast India. Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine, 12:9
Lamp, C & Collet F., 1989, Field Guide to Weeds in Australia. Inkata Press. p 131
Mot So Rau Dai an Duoc O Vietnam. Wild edible Vegetables. Ha Noi 1994, p 88

Show all 7 references

Plants for a Future database, The Field, Penpol, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0NG, UK. http://www.scs.leeds.ac.uk/pfaf/
Seidemann J., 2005, World Spice Plants. Economic Usage, Botany, Taxonomy. Springer. p 170