Yuan Zhi (Polygala sibirica)

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

Polygala sibirica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 6in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves - cooked. Root - cooked. We have no more details on this species but the root of another member of this genus has its core removed before the root is cooked in several changes of water. — Young leaves - cooked.; We have no more details on this species but the root of another member of this genus has its core removed before the root is cooked in several changes of water.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry calcareous slopes in Ukraine. Open slopes in the Himalayas from Pakistan to Tibet at 1600 - 3600 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)