Thorow-wax, Hare's ear, Sickle Hare's Ear, Sickle-leaved hare's-ear
Bupleurum falcatum

Family: Apiaceae

What it is like

A variable perennial herb. It has hollow stems. The leaves at the base are oblong and have stalks. There are 5-7 veins. The leaves on the stem are narrow and often sickle shaped and do not have stalks but clasp the stem. The flower umbels are yellow. There are 3-15 rays. The fruit are oblong and 3-4 mm long. They have narrow ridges.

It is used as medicine in Nepal. There are about 100 Bupleurum species. The stem and the leaves contain the glucoside rutin.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. It grows on stony and grassy locations. It needs a well-drained soil and full sun.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Bhutan, Britain, China, Europe, France, Himalayas, India, Italy, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Mediterranean, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, SE Asia

How it is used for food

The roots are eaten. The leaves are used as a potherb.

Edible parts

Roots, leaves

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed or division of the plant.

Its other names

Local names

Chai hu, Kalizewar

Synonyms

Bupleurum exaltatum; Bupleurum olympicum; Bupleurum parnassicum;