Costus, Kuth
Saussurea lappa
Family: Asteraceae
What it is like
A herb.
Where it is found
A cool temperate plant.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Himalayas, India, NW India
How it is used for food
The roots are used as a spice. They are also the source of an essential oil used in the food industry for flavouring baked goods and puddings. The leaves are eaten as a vegetable.
It is cultivated.
Edible parts
Roots - spice, oil, leaves
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Mu Xiang