Sonchus brachyotus
Family: Asteraceae or Compositae
What it is like
Sonchus brachyotus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). The flowers are pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.6
Where it is found
Sunny grassy places and cultivated fields all over Japan.
E. Asia - China, Japan, Siberia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Young leaves and stem tops - raw or cooked. Root - cooked.
Root: includes bulbs, corms, tubers, rhizomes etc.
Medicine
Rating: 1
A decoction of the whole plant is used to treat stomach problems, dermatitis, inflammation, ulcers etc.
Miscellany: Various medicinal actions that need more clarification.
Other
Rating:
Miscellany: A rag-bag of items that are difficult to categorise.
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will succeed in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in most soils in a sunny position.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in situ. Division in spring.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade:
Moisture: Moist