Achyranthes japonica
| Achyranthes japonica | |
| Light: |   |
| Moisture: |  |
| Soil pH: | 5.6-7.3 |
| Height: | 3' |
| Open Woods Forest | |
| Native to: | |
| Medicinal Rating: | |
| Tea: | Yes |
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Achyranthes japonica (common name: japanese chaff flower)
Propagation: Seed - sow late spring in a greenhouse. Germination should be fairly rapid, prick out the seedlings into individual pots of fairly rich soil when they are large enough to handle. It is probably wise to grow this plant on in the greenhouse for its first winter, planting it out into its permanent position in late spring after the last expected frosts.
Cultivation: We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain. However, judging by the plants native range, it is likely to succeed outdoors at least in the milder areas of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus.
Prefers a rich, sandy, slightly acid soil in partial shade[1].
Range: E. Asia - Japan, Korea
Habitat: Woody areas in lowlands and hills.[2]
Medicinal: The root of the plant is used in Korea to treat oedema, rheumatism, delayed menses and as a contraceptive and abortifacient[2]. The root contains triterpenoid saponins and has been shown to have analgesic, antiallergic, antiinflammatory, antispasmodic, diuretic, hypotensive and uterine stimulant properties[2]. In addition, it contains protocatechuic acid, which has antioxidant properties, and also inhibits the aggregation of platelets[2].
Usage: Two insect-moulting hormones are found in the seeds[2]. Can this have a practical application as an insecticide?
Soil: Can grow in light and medium soils.
Flower Type: Hermaphrodite
Links
References
- ↑ Bown, Deni. Royal Horticultural Society Encyclopaedia of Herbs and Their Uses. Dorling Kindersley, 1995.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 Medicinal Plants in the Republic of Korea. World Health Organisation, 1998.