Lithospermum (Lithospermum erythrorhizon)

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

Lithospermum erythrorhizon is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.7 m (2ft 4in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from June to September, and the seeds ripen from July to September. 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.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Grassy slopes in mountains and hills all over Japan. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)