Ma Dou Ling (Aristolochia contorta)

Family: Aristolochiaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Aristolochia contorta is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). It is in flower from May to July, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves - cooked. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. — Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Habitat & North American Range

Osier beds. Thickets on mountain slopes or in valleys at elvations of 500 - 1200 metres in China. Edges of mountain woods in Korea. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)