Yama-shakuyaku
Paeonia japonica
Family: Paeoniaceae
What it is like
It is a perennial herb up to 45 cm high.
There are about 30 Paeonia species.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows naturally in open deciduous woods in mountains in central Japan. It requires a deep rich neutral of alkaline soil. The soil should not be waterlogged nor too dry.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Japan, Korea
How it is used for food
The leaves are eaten cooked. The roots are chewed. They are also used in brewing.
Edible parts
Flowers, leaves, root
How it is grown
Plants are grown from seed and fresh seed should be used, as stored seed takes a long time to germinate. Plants do not like root disturbance. Transplanting or division of the root should be done very carefully.
Plants take 4-5 years to flower from seed. Plants can live for 50 years.
Its other names
Local names
Baekjakyak