Boehmeria spicata

Physical Characteristics

Boehmeria spicata is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. 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, Japan, Korea.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Young leaves - cooked[177]. The stems and the leaves are dried and ground into a meal then used in dumplings[177].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

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