Rakkyo

Allium chinense

Physical Characteristics

Allium chinense is an evergreen Bulb growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Root Seedpod Edible Uses: Bulb - raw or cooked[116, 177]. The bulb has an excellent crisp texture with a strong onion flavour[183], it can be 4 - 5cm in diameter, though it does not reach this size until the second or third year[206]. It contains about 3.1% protein, 0.12% fat, 18.3% soluble carbohydrate, 0.7% ash[179]. Leaves - raw or cooked[179]. Flowers and young seedpods - raw[179]. Used as a garnish on salads.

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Carminative Dysentery Expectorant The whole plant is astringent, carminative and expectorant[176]. It is used in the treatment of stuffiness sensation and pain in the chest, angina pectoris, pleurisy, bronchitis, diarrhoea and tenesmus in cases of dysentery[176]. Although no other specific mention of medicinal uses has been seen for this species, members of this genus are in general very healthy additions to the diet. They contain sulphur compounds (which give them their onion flavour) and when added to the diet on a regular basis they help reduce blood cholesterol levels, act as a tonic to the digestive system and also tonify the circulatory system[K].

Known Hazards

Although no individual reports regarding this species have been seen, there have been cases of poisoning caused by the consumption, in large quantities and by some mammals, of certain members of this genus. Dogs seem to be particularly susceptible[76].