Oplopanax japonicus

Physical Characteristics

Oplopanax japonicus is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

E. Asia - Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Shoots Edible Uses: Young shoots - peeled and then cooked[46, 61, 105, 106]. Only the very young shoots are used[172]. The roots can be chewed after peeling[105, 106, 161].

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Antiphlogistic Antirheumatic Hypoglycaemic Tonic The root bark and stems are analgesic, antiphlogistic, antirheumatic, hypoglycaemic and tonic[172].

Known Hazards

The plant is densely armed with spikes and these spikes are irritant[200]. Although no specific mention has been seen for this plant, it belongs to a genus where the species are usually rich in calcium oxylate, this is toxic and if consumed makes the mouth and digestive tract feel as though hundreds of needles are being stuck into it. However, calcium oxylate is easily destroyed by thoroughly cooking or drying the plant.