Polygonum molle

Physical Characteristics

Polygonum molle is a PERENNIAL growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower in July, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. 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 prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Himalayas from Uttar Pradesh to S.W. China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Ground Cover;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Seed Shoots Edible Uses: Young shoots - raw or cooked as a vegetable[146, 177, 272]. Pleasantly acid, they are used like rhubarb[105]. Seed - raw or cooked. It is rather small and fiddly to utilize.

Medicinal Uses

Astringent The whole plant is astringent[240].

Known Hazards

Although no specific mention has been made for this species, there have been reports that some members of this genus can cause photosensitivity in susceptible people. Many species also contain oxalic acid (the distinctive lemony flavour of sorrel) - whilst not toxic this substance can bind up other minerals making them unavailable to the body and leading to mineral deficiency. Having said that, a number of common foods such as sorrel and rhubarb contain oxalic acid and the leaves of most members of this genus are nutritious and beneficial to eat in moderate quantities. Cooking the leaves will reduce their content of oxalic acid. People with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones or hyperacidity should take especial caution if including this plant in their diet since it can aggravate their condition[238].