Bian Dou Cai (Sanicula chinensis)

Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Sanicula chinensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is in flower from May to October, and the seeds ripen from June to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. 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.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves - cooked. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. — Young leaves - cooked.; Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Habitat & North American Range

Woods in low mountains all over Japan. Shady slopes along roadsides, mixed forests or stream banks at elevations of 200 - 2300 metres in most of China. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)