Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)

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

Eleutherococcus senticosus is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2 m (6ft 7in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in nutritionally poor 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

Young leaves and buds - cooked. The dried leaves are used as a tea substitute. — Young leaves and buds - cooked.; The dried leaves are used as a tea substitute.

Habitat & North American Range

Mixed and coniferous mountain forests, forming small undergrowth or groups in thickets and edges. Sometimes found in oak groves at the foot of cliffs, very rarely in high forest riparian woodland. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)