Sha Shen (Adenophora stricta)
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Frost limit
- −17.8 °C
Cultivation
Prefers a light rich slightly alkaline soil that is not too dry, and a warm sunny position. Plants are intolerant of root disturbance. The young growth is extremely attractive to slugs, they have been known to destroy even mature plants[K].
Propagation
Seed - best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. Plant out into their permanent positions whilst young. Basal cuttings in spring[238, K]. Division in spring - very difficult because the plant dislikes root disturbance.
Edible uses
Root - cooked. Leaves - cooked.
Medicinal uses
The root is a stimulant herb that acts mainly on the respiratory system and the heart.
Habitat
Hillsides and hilly places in China.
Native range
E. Asia - China. Cultivated and naturalised in Japan.