Although no reports of toxicity have been found for this plant, at least 3 other members of this genus have reports that the leaves are toxic[7, 19]. Some caution is therefore advised in the use of this plant.
Range
E. Asia - Japan.
Habitat
Not known
Edibility Rating
2 (1-5)
Medicinal Rating
0 (1-5)
Physical Characteristics
Perennial.
It is hardy to zone 0. The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by Flies.
The plant prefers light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and requires well-drained soil.
The plant prefers acid and neutral soils.
It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland).
It requires moist soil.
Habitats
Woodland Garden; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Deep Shade;
Used as a spice[177]. The report gives no more details, but it is most likely that the root is used and that it is a ginger substitute[K].
Medicinal Uses
Plants For A Future can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants.
Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.
None known
Other Uses
None known
Cultivation details
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus.
Prefers a rich moist neutral to acid soil in woodland or a shady position in the rock garden[1, 200].
Plants are hardy to at least -15°c[200].
The flowers are malodorous and are pollinated by flies[200].
Plants often self-sow when growing in a suitable position[200].
Propagation
Seed - best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe in the summer[134]. Stored seed will require 3 weeks cold stratification and should be sown in late winter[134]. The seed usually germinates in the spring in 1 - 4 or more weeks at 18°c[134]. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in light shade in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out when large enough in late spring.
Division in spring or autumn. Plants are slow to increase[200]. It is best to pot the divisions up and keep them in light shade in the greenhouse until they are growing away strongly.
Links
References
[K] Ken Fern Notes from observations, tasting etc at Plants For A Future and on field trips.
[1] F. Chittendon.RHS Dictionary of Plants plus Supplement. 1956 Oxford University Press 1951 Comprehensive listing of species and how to grow them. Somewhat outdated, it has been replaces in 1992 by a new dictionary (see [200]).
[7] Chiej. R.Encyclopaedia of Medicinal Plants. MacDonald 1984 ISBN 0-356-10541-5 Covers plants growing in Europe. Also gives other interesting information on the plants. Good photographs.
[19] Stary. F.Poisonous Plants. Hamlyn 1983 ISBN 0-600-35666-3 Not very comprehensive, but easy reading.
[134] Rice. G. (Editor)Growing from Seed. Volume 2. Thompson and Morgan. 1988 Very readable magazine with lots of information on propagation. An interesting article on Ensete ventricosum.
[177] Kunkel. G.Plants for Human Consumption. Koeltz Scientific Books 1984 ISBN 3874292169 An excellent book for the dedicated. A comprehensive listing of latin names with a brief list of edible parts.
[200] Huxley. A.The New RHS Dictionary of Gardening. 1992. MacMillan Press 1992 ISBN 0-333-47494-5 Excellent and very comprehensive, though it contains a number of silly mistakes. Readable yet also very detailed.
Readers Comments
Plants for a Future does not verify the accuracy of reader comments,
use at your own risk. In particular
Plants For A Future can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants.
You should always consult a professional before using plants medicinally.
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