Lysimachia fortunei
Family: Primulaceae
What it is like
Lysimachia fortunei is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.4 m (1ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil and can grow in water.
Height (m): 0.5
Where it is found
Wet margins of rivers and ponds in the lowland of C. and S. Japan. Wet areas, ditches, banks of rice paddies and roadsides from sea level to 1500 metres.
E. Asia - China, Japan.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
The young plant is edible. No more details are given. The leaves are also used as a condiment.
Condiment: the various plants that are used as flavourings, either as herbs, spices or condiments.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
An easily grown plant, succeeding in a moist loamy soil. Judging by its native habitat, it should succeed in shallow water. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Most species in this genus seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits.
Propagating it: Seed - sow autumn in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring or autumn. Larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring.
Best place to grow: Pond; Bog Garden;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist, wet, water