Jeffersonia dubia
Family: Berberidaceae
What it is like
Jeffersonia dubia is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.3
Where it is found
Forests.
E. Asia - N. China to Siberia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
The root is febrifuge and stomachic. It also contains the anti-tumour compound berberine.
Cancer: Used in the treatment of cancer.
Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.
Stomachic: Aids and improves the action of the stomach.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Prefers a light sandy, peaty or humus-rich woodland soil and a rather shady situation. Suitable for a choice position in a cool leafy soil. This species is hardy to at least -20°c. Plants have an extensive root system and resent disturbance. They should be pot-grown and planted into their permanent positions as soon as possible They should be pot-grown and planted into their permanent positions as soon as possible
Propagating it: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. Sow stored seed as soon as possible in late winter or the 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. Division in early spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 4-8
Growth: Slow
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: Full shade, semi-shade
Moisture: Moist