Dipsacus mitis

Family: Dipsacaceae

What it is like

Dipsacus mitis is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). 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): 1

Where it is found

Humus rich soils amongst scrub and in forests, 1700 - 3100 metres in the Himalayas.

E. Asia - N. India.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Leaves - cooked.

Medicine

Rating: 0

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, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors at least in the milder parts of this country. It is likely to require a well-drained humus-rich soil in sun or semi-shade.

Propagating it: Seed - we have no details but suggest sowing it in a greenhouse in early spring. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

D. inermis.