Ramie

Boehmeria nipononivea

Physical Characteristics

Boehmeria nipononivea is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). It is in flower from September to October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required).. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) 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, C. and S. Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Edible Uses: Root - cooked[177]. Leaves - cooked[177].

Medicinal Uses

Febrifuge The plant is used as a medicine to relieve fevers and infections of the urethra[266].

Known Hazards

Although members of the nettle family, plants in this genus do not have stinging hairs[235].