Costus (Saussurea costus)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Saussurea costus is a PERENNIAL growing to 3 m (9ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. 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.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

aromatic root is sometimes used as a spice. — The aromatic root is sometimes used as a spice.; It has a characteristic penetrating odour reminiscent of violet, orris and vetiver.

Habitat & North American Range

A casual in irrigated areas, 2000 - 3300 metres from Pakistan to Himachel Pradesh. Usually found in moist shady situations in Kashmir, sometimes forming the undergrowth in birch forests. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)