Chinese groundsel
Gynura divaricata
Family: Asteraceae
What it is like
A succulent herb. It has robust rootstocks. The primary stems emerge from the rootstock and are 0.5-1.5 m tall. They are 5-10 mm across. They end in a cluster of flower heads. In the next season secondary branches emerge that are shorter and thinner and have leafy portions 5-30 cm long by 3-5 mm wide. The flowers are bright golden yellow.
There are about 100 Gynura species. They are mostly in the tropics. This one helps against diabetes.
Where it is found
It is a subtropical plant. It grows on open hillsides often in rocky areas. It occurs on cliffs close to the seashore. Because of the buried rootstock it is fire resistant. In southern China it grows in wet places and amongst rocks near the seaside from sea level to 2,800 m above sea level. In Sichuan and Yunnan.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, China, SE Asia, Vietnam
How it is used for food
The leafy shoots are boiled with brown sugar and poached eggs added.
Edible parts
Leaves
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Pa bong bang