Ovata Codonopsis (Codonopsis ovata)

Family: Campanulaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Codonopsis ovata is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in) by 0.4 m (1ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Root - cooked. It can be dried and ground into a powder. A famine food, used when all else fails. — It can be dried and ground into a powder.; A famine food, used when all else fails.

Habitat & North American Range

Rocks and alpine slopes of the eastern Himalayas, usually amongst shrubs, 3000 - 4200 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)