Peristrophe japonica
Family: Acanthaceae
What it is like
Peristrophe japonica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). 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): 0.5
Where it is found
Damp shady places in woods and mountain gullies in China. More or less shady forests in lowland areas of Japan.
E. Asia - China, central and southern Japan.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
Antiphlogistic, carminative, depurative, febrifuge, styptic and tonic.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and are not sure if it will be hardy outdoors in Britain, though judging by its native habitat it is likely to succeed at least in the milder areas of the country.
Propagating it: Seed -
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist