Lapsana humilis
Family: Asteraceae or Compositae
What it is like
Lapsana humilis is a BIENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: 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
River banks, rice paddies and cultivated fields and thickets in lowland all over Japan.
E. Asia - Japan.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Young plant - 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 succeed outdoors in Britain, though judging by its native range it is likely to be hardy at least in the milder areas of the country. The plant will probably prefer full sun or light shade and is likely to be fairly tolerant of soil types.
Propagating it: Seed - sow in situ during mid to late summer, or as soon as it is ripe, and only just cover the seed.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Biennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist