Queen coralbead (Cocculus orbiculatus)

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

Cocculus orbiculatus is a deciduous Climber growing to 4 m (13ft 1in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower in August, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves - cooked. An emergency food, it is used when all else fails. One report says that the root might be edible. — An emergency food, it is used when all else fails.; One report says that the root might be edible.

Habitat & North American Range

Sides of streams, to 1000 metres in W. China. Sparse forests, bushes, village sides and forest edges in most regions of China. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)