Water Dropwort, Java waterdropwort, Stolon waterdropwort

Oenanthe javanica

Physical Characteristics

Oenanthe javanica is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from June to August, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers wet soil and can grow in water.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea to Australia.

Habitats

Ground Cover; Pond; Bog Garden; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Seed Shoots Edible Uses: Condiment Young leaves and stems - raw or cooked[2, 46, 61, 105]. The leaves are also used as a seasoning in soups etc[179, 183]. The flavour is reminiscent of carrots or parsley[206]. The young shoots that sprout from the root in winter are best[116, 206]. A major vegetable in many parts of the Orient, the leaves are a rich source of vitamins and minerals (Analysis available)[218]. Root - cooked. Highly esteemed in Japan[116], the roots can grow up to 30cm long in water[183]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Seed is said to be edible[183].

Medicinal Uses

Depurative Febrifuge Styptic The whole plant is depurative, febrifuge and styptic[147, 178]. A decoction is used in the treatment of epidemic influenza, fever and discomfort, jaundice, haematuria and metrorrhagia[147]. The seed contains 3.5% essential oil. This is effective at large dilutions against pathogenic fungi[218].

Known Hazards

Although no specific mention of toxicity has been seen for this species, it belongs to a genus that contains a number of very poisonous plants and so some caution is advised[K]. It is said to contain the alleged 'psychotroph' myristicine[218].