Stellaria diversiflora

Maxim.

Caryophyllaceae Edible: Leaves Potential hazards — see below

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Meise Botanic Garden

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Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

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University of Vermont

Summary

Source: Wikipedia

Perennial herb growing to 0.3 m (1 ft) tall. Hermaphroditic and insect-pollinated. Adapts to light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils across mildly acid to mildly alkaline pH ranges. Tolerates semi-shade (light woodland) or full sun and prefers moist soil.

Description

Edible Uses

Young leaves are eaten cooked.

Traditional Uses

Young leaves are cooked.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Although no mention has been seen for this species, the leaves of some members of this genus contain saponins. Although toxic, these substances are very poorly absorbed by the body and so tend to pass through without causing harm. They are also broken down by thorough cooking. Saponins are found in many plants, including several that are often used for food, such as certain beans. It is advisable not to eat large quantities of food that contain saponins. Saponins are much more toxic to some creatures, such as fish, and hunting tribes have traditionally put large quantities of them in streams, lakes etc in order to stupefy or kill the fish.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

Asia, Japan,

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy outdoors in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors at least in the milder parts of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a moist soil.