Japanese knotweed. (Reynoutria japonica)

Family: Polygonaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Reynoutria japonica is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft) by 2 m (6ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. 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. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour and can also be used as a rhubarb substitute in pies, fruit soups, jams etc. — Edible Portion: Leaves, Shoots, Rhizomes, Roots.; Young shoots in spring - cooked.; They can be used as an asparagus substitute.; They have an acid flavour and can also be used as a rhubarb substitute in pies, fruit soups, jams etc.

Habitat & North American Range

Cold to warm temperate. It grows in forests and humid areas. It grows in wetlands. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)