Upright Hedge Parsley, Erect hedgeparsley

Torilis japonica

Physical Characteristics

Torilis japonica is a ANNUAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. 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 and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Norway south and east to N. Africa, north and east Asia.

Habitats

Hedgerow;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Edible Uses: Leaves - cooked[105, 177]. Root - peeled and eaten raw[105, 177]. Although we have no record of the seed being edible, there is a report that it contains 16 - 21% protein and 10 - 23% fat[218].

Medicinal Uses

Expectorant Tonic The seed is anthelmintic, antifungal, antiviral, expectorant and tonic[218, 279]. It is used in Korea in the treatment of amnesia, pruritis, acidosis and scabies[279]. The juice of the root is used in the treatment of indigestion[272].

Known Hazards

None known