Cochis bladder-nut
Staphylea colchica
Family: Staphyleaceae
What it is like
A shrub or small tree. It grows 4 m tall. It loses its leaves during the year.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It needs moist, rich, well-drained soils in either full sun or light shade. Melbourne Botanical garden. It suits hardiness zone 6.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Caucasus, Central Asia, Georgia (country/location of origin), Iran, Mediterranean, Middle East
How it is used for food
The young leaf shoots are eaten. The young flower buds are pickled in brine and used as a caper-like condiment.
They are sold in local markets.
Edible parts
Leaves, buds, flowers
How it is grown
It can spread by suckers.
It grows rapidly.
Its other names
Local names
Dzhondzholi, Jonjoli