Asian pearlwort (Sagina japonica)
Other names Japanese pearlwort
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Annual
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of the country.
Propagation
Seed - we have no information for this species but suggest sowing the seed in a cold frame in the spring. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. If you have sufficient seed it might be worthwhile sowing some in situ in April.
Edible uses
Leaves - cooked.
Medicinal uses
The leaves are used in the treatment of alopecia, caries, nerves, jaundice, fevers, foul sores, skin diseases and vaginitis. A decoction of the whole plant is used to treat boils, caries, dermatitis etc and as an antidote to varnish poisoning.
Habitat
Lowland to mountains all over Japan.
Native range
E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea.