Xuan Fu Hua (Inula britannica chinensis)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Inula britannica chinensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves - cooked. An emergency food, it is only used when better foods are not available. — An emergency food, it is only used when better foods are not available.

Habitat & North American Range

Wet places in lowlands, especially by rivers, all over Japan. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)