Pueraria tuberosa

Physical Characteristics

Pueraria tuberosa is a CLIMBER growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). It can fix Nitrogen. 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 cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Pakistan to C. Nepal and India.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root - raw[2, 105, 146]. Very large, it is up to 50cm long and 30cm in diameter[158]. A liquorice flavour[158].

Medicinal Uses

Demulcent Emetic Galactogogue Poultice Refrigerant Tonic The root is used as a demulcent and refrigerant in the treatment of fevers[240]. It is peeled and bruised into a cataplasm and used to reduce swellings[240]. It is crushed and rubbed on the body in the treatment of fevers and rheumatism[240]. It is also emetic, galactogogue and tonic[240].

Known Hazards

None known