Nuphar japonicum

Physical Characteristics

Nuphar japonicum is a PERENNIAL. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies, beetles. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It can grow in water.

Distribution

E. Asia - Japan.

Habitats

Pond;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Seed Edible Uses: Root - cooked[105, 177]. Used as a famine food, when baked it tastes like sweet chestnuts[178]. The root probably needs to be steeped in water before use in order to remove a bitter flavour[K]. Seed[105, 177]. No more details are given but the seed is probably rich in starch and can be ground into a powder then used as a thickener in soups etc[K].

Medicinal Uses

Birthing aid Digestive Women's complaints Digestive, women's complaints[174, 178]. Used before and after childbirth, it treats gynecopathy(menoxenia)[174].

Known Hazards

None known