Lithospermum erythrorhizon
Family: Boraginaceae
What it is like
A herb. It keeps growing from year to year. The roots are dark red with a purple dye. There are usually 1-3 erect stems. They are 40-90 cm tall. The leaves do not have stalks. They are broadly sword shaped and 3-8 cm long by 1-2 cm wide. The flowers are at the top of the plant. They are white.
The roots are used in medicine.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows in meadows on slopes.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, China, Japan, Korea, Russia
How it is used for food
The root is used in brewing. It is used for an edible red colouring. The young leaves are pan fried.
Edible parts
Root, leaves
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Jichi