Mao Gen (Ranunculus japonicus)

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

Ranunculus japonicus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.3 m (1ft). It is in flower from May to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. 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. The leaves contain a low level of toxicity that is not enough to be injurious. — The leaves contain a low level of toxicity that is not enough to be injurious.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist soils in grassy places in lowland and mountains all over Japan. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)