Kudzu Vine (Pueraria montana lobata)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Pueraria montana lobata is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER growing to 10 m (32ft 10in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in starch. — The root can be up to 1.8 metres long and has been known to weigh 35 kilos or more.; The root contains about 10% starch, this can be extracted and used as a crispy coating in deep fried foods, or for thickening soups etc.; It can also be made into noodles, or like agar or gelatine is used as a gelling agent for salads.; This plant is a staple food in Japan, the peeled root contains about 2.1% protein, 0.1% fat, 27.1% carbohydrate, 1.4% ash.

Habitat & North American Range

Thickets and thin woods all over Japan. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)