Luduti
Codonopsis ovata
Family: Campanulaceae
What it is like
A herb that keeps growing from year to year. It has a fleshy root. It grows 20 cm high and spreads 25 cm wide. The stem is scaly. The branching shoots bear small leaves. The leaves are hairy. The flowers are nodding. The flowers are blue with purple veins. They are bell shaped.
There are about 30 Codonopsis species.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows in grassy spots with sandy or stony soils. It grows between 3000-4300 m altitudes. It is best in light to medium well-drained soils. It needs an open sunny position. It is resistant to frost and damaged by drought.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Australia, China (country/location of origin), Europe, Himalayas, India, NW India, Pakistan
How it is used for food
The roots are used for an edible flour. They are eaten raw or cooked.
The roots are eaten raw as a snack in the field.
Edible parts
Roots
How it is grown
Plants can be grown by seeds.
Its other names
Local names
Chamelia, Ludut