Swertia japonica
Family: Gentianaceae
What it is like
Swertia japonica is a ANNUAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 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). It prefers moist or wet soil.
Height (m): 0.2
Where it is found
Sunny slopes and thickets in lowland and hills all over Japan.
E. Asia - Japan.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
The leaves might be edible cooked as a potherb.
Medicine
Rating: 1
The whole plant is bitter and stomachic. It is used in the treatment of digestive disorders.
Appetizer: Improves the appetite
Bitter: Increases the appetite and stimulates digestion by acting on the mucous membranes of the mouth. Also increases the flow of bile, stimulates repair of the gut wall lining and regulates the secretion of insulin and glucogen.
Stomachic: Aids and improves the action of the stomach.
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 should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The plant is monocarpic, living for one to three years before flowering and dying after it flowers. It is cultivated as a medicinal herb in China.It requires a symbiotic relationship with soil bacteria. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in a moist humus-rich soil in damp light woodlands, streamsides or the bog garden. Grows best in areas with cool summers.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in temperatures not exceeding 10°c in a humus-rich medium. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them Tu in early summer.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Bog Garden;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade
Moisture: Moist, wet