Bei Chai Hu (Bupleurum chinense)

Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Bupleurum chinense is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from July to October, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves and young shoots - cooked.The new growth in spring and autumn is used. It is a good source of rutin. Root - cooked. A famine food, used when all else fails. — Leaves and young shoots - cooked.The new growth in spring and autumn is used.; It is a good source of rutin.; A famine food, used when all else fails.

Habitat & North American Range

Grassy areas on hills and mountain slopes in Korea. Grasslands, stream banks, sunny slopes and roadsides at elevations of 100 - 2700 metres in China. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)