Huang Jing

Polygonatum sibiricum

Physical Characteristics

Polygonatum sibiricum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. 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 full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - N. China, Mongolia and Siberia.

Habitats

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

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Shoots Edible Uses: Young shoots - cooked[105, 176]. They can be used as an asparagus substitute. Root - cooked[105, 176]. Rich in starch.

Medicinal Uses

Antibacterial Antifungal Antirheumatic Demulcent Lenitive Miscellany Tonic The root is antibacterial, antifungal, antirheumatic, antiseptic, demulcent, lenitive, tonic and vasodilator[176, 218]. Its use lowers the blood pressure and prevents atherosclerosis and fatty infiltration in the liver[176]. It is used in the treatment of dry coughs due to chronic bronchitis and pulmonary tuberculosis, fatigue and poor appetite[176].

Known Hazards

Although no reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, some members of this genus have poisonous fruits and seeds.