Saussurea affinis

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

What it is like

Saussurea affinis is a BIENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). 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): 0.6

Where it is found

Mountain slopes and valleys, plains, hills, forest margins, forests, grassland, wasteland, farmland, riversidesand roadsides from near sea level to 3300 metres.

E. Asia - China, Japan.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Leaves and young shoots. No more details are given.

Medicine

Rating: 1

The juice of the root is given with other herbs in the treatment of diseases of women.

Women's complaints: A very vague title, it deals with a miscellany of problems peculiar to the female sex.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it could succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. Some authorities now say that the correct name of this species is Hemistepta lyrata. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in most soils in a sunny well-drained position.

Propagating it: Seed - we have no information for this species but suggest sowing the seed in situ in May. If seed is in short supply then sowing it in a pot in a cold frame would be advisable, planting out in the summer.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Biennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Hemistepta lyrata. Bunge.