Chop-Suey Greens

Chrysanthemum coronarium spatiosum

Physical Characteristics

Chrysanthemum coronarium spatiosum is a ANNUAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft). It is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). 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 moist soil.

Distribution

S. Europe.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Young shoots and stems - raw or cooked[34, 46, 61, 105, 116]. Strongly aromatic[183, 200], they are used as a flavouring or as a vegetable[206]. Cooked leaves become bitter if overcooked at a high temperature[206]. Young leaves are excellent in salads[206]. The leaves quickly wilt once they have been picked so it is best to harvest them as required[206]. They contain about 1.85% protein, 0.43% fat, 2.57% carbohydrate, 0.98% ash[179]. They are rich in vitamin B1, contain a moderate content of vitamin C and a little vitamin A[179]. Flowers - raw[116]. Blanched briefly and added to salads[183]. The centre of the flower is bitter so only the petals are normally used[206]. A fragrant pickle known as 'kikumi' is made from the petals in Japan[183].

Medicinal Uses

Aromatic Bitter Expectorant Purgative Stomachic VD Vitamin C The leaves are expectorant and stomachic[218]. In conjunction with black pepper it is used in the treatment of gonorrhoea[240]. The flowers are aromatic, bitter and stomachic[240]. They are used as a substitute for camomile (Chamaemelum nobile)[240]. The bark is purgative, it is used in the treatment of syphilis[240].

Known Hazards

None known