Japanese Swertia (Swertia japonica)

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

Swertia japonica is a ANNUAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). 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). It prefers moist or wet soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The leaves might be edible cooked as a potherb. — The leaves might be edible cooked as a potherb.

Habitat & North American Range

Sunny slopes and thickets in lowland and hills all over Japan. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)