Queen coralbead

Cocculus orbiculatus

Physical Characteristics

Cocculus orbiculatus is a deciduous Climber growing to 4 m (13ft 1in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower in August, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant). 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

E. Asia - China, Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Edible Uses: Leaves - cooked. An emergency food, it is used when all else fails[177]. One report says that the root might be edible[177].

Medicinal Uses

Anodyne Antiasthmatic Antiphlogistic Antirheumatic Carminative Depurative Diuretic Vermifuge The root is anodyne, antiphlogistic, antirheumatic, carminative, depurative, diuretic and vermifuge[147, 176, 218]. It is used in the treatment of rheumatic arthritis, oedema and oliguria[176]. It has also shown antibacterial and anti-amoebic activity[176]. A decoction of the stems is used in the treatment of asthma, bronchitis and paralysis[218].

Known Hazards

None known