Katakuri (Erythronium japonicum)

Family: Liliaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Erythronium japonicum is a BULB growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). It is not frost tender. It is in flower from March to April, and the seeds ripen from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland).

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Bulb - raw or cooked. The source of a starch, called 'katakuri-ko' in Japan. It is used in dumplings, confectionery, as a thickener in soups etc. — Bulb - raw or cooked.; The source of a starch, called 'katakuri-ko' in Japan.; It is used in dumplings, confectionery, as a thickener in soups etc.; It is preferred over other starches for use in sauces which must thicken but not gel upon cooling.

Habitat & North American Range

Woods in lowland and low mountains of C. and N. Japan. Moist places in forests, S Jilin and Liaoning provinces in hina. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)