Orychophragmus violaceus
Family: Brassicaceae or Cruciferae
What it is like
Orychophragmus violaceus is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.3
Where it is found
Roadsides, gardens, forests, fields, thickets, valleys, hillsides and sunny slopes from near sea level to 1500 metres.
E. Asia - eastern China to Korea.
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
Succeeds in a fertile well-drained soil in a sunny position. Plants are not very cold-tolerant, but they can be overwintered outdoors in areas where winter temperatures do not fall below about -5°c. This species is cultivated as a vegetable in China.
Propagating it: Seed - sow in situ in spring or early summer.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual/Biennial
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist