Chloranthus japonicus
Family: Chloranthaceae
What it is like
Chloranthus japonicus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from July to August. 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) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.3
Where it is found
Forests, shaded, wet places and streamsides at elevations of 100 - 2300 metres in northern China.
E. Asia - northern China, Japan, Korea and eastern Russia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
The root contains sesquiterpenes and coumarins. It is used medicinally in Koreato treat dermatopathia and enteric fever.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain. However, judging by its native range, it is likely to succeed outdoors in most areas of the country. The plant is likely to prefer woodland conditions in moist fertile soils.
Propagating it: Seed -
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist