Polygonatum stenanthum

Nakai

O-Naruko-Yuri

Asparagaceae Edible: Leaves, Root Potential hazards — see below

gbif· cc-by

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

gbif· cc-by

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

gbif· cc-by

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Summary

Polygonatum stenanthum is a hardy perennial reaching 1.2 m tall, suitable for UK zone 7. It produces hermaphrodite, bee-pollinated flowers and is self-fertile. The plant tolerates light, medium, or heavy soils with good drainage and mildly acid to basic pH levels. It grows in full to semi-shade and prefers moist soil.

Description

Edible Uses

Young shoots are cooked and can be used as an asparagus substitute. The root is also eaten cooked and is rich in starch.

Medicinal Uses

None known.

Known Hazards

Although no reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, some members of this genus have poisonous fruits and seeds.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

Asia, Japan,

Cultivation

Prefers a fertile humus rich moisture-retentive well-drained soil in cool shade or semi-shade. Plants are intolerant of heat and drought but they tolerate most other conditions. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer or rabbits. The young shoots of most members of this genus are very attractive to slugs. Hybridizes with other members of this genus.

Propagation

Seed is best sown as soon as it is ripe in early autumn in a shady part of a cold greenhouse. Stored seed should be sown as early in the year as possible. Germination can be slow, seedlings may not come true to type, and it takes several years to reach a good size. Prick seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle and grow on in a shady position in the greenhouse for at least their first winter, then plant out in late spring or early summer after the last expected frosts. Divide in March or October. Larger divisions can go directly into permanent positions, while smaller ones are better potted up and grown on in light shade in a cold frame until well established before planting out in late spring or early summer.