No-Azami (Cirsium japonicum)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Cirsium japonicum is a BIENNIAL/PERENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from August to September, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies), beetles. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves - cooked. Very palatable in the spring, they are used with the young roots. — Very palatable in the spring, they are used with the young roots.

Habitat & North American Range

Sunny slopes in lowlands and foothills, C. and S. Japan. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)