Todok

Codonopsis lanceolata

Physical Characteristics

Codonopsis lanceolata is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from August to September, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, wasps. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[105, 177]. The plant produces thick tubers[275]. Young plant - raw or cooked[105, 177]. A nutritional analysis is available[218].

Medicinal Uses

Aphrodisiac Depurative Emmenagogue Galactogogue Tonic Aphrodisiac, tonic[46, 61]. The root is anticancer, depurative, emmenagogue and galactogogue[147, 218]. A decoction is used in the treatment of lung abscesses, milk-flow obstruction, amenorrhoea, acute and inflamed boils and abscesses and lymphadenopathy[147].

Known Hazards

None known