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IIIFolio · plant profile№ 9ABDedible
Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 18 Oct 2026methodology → read

Cacalia delphiniifolia

Cacalia delphiniifolia
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
edibleperennialedibleedible leafnative asiaperennialshade tolerant
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Cacalia delphiniifolia (Cacalia delphiniifolia) — botanical photograph
Pl. 9ABD — Cacalia delphiniifolia
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Overview

Cacalia delphiniifolia, a perennial plant native to the South-Central regions of China and Japan, is a versatile addition to gardens and culinary dishes. This light-loving species thrives in partial sun or full shade and can grow up to 1 meter tall. It prefers well-drained soils that are either light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay), making it adaptable to various growing conditions. The edible parts of Cacalia delphiniifolia include its leaves, which can be consumed raw or cooked and are often used in stir-fries or soups to add a mild flavor. Its ability to grow in shaded areas and its adaptability to different soil types make it a valuable ornamental choice. While not medicinal, Cacalia delphiniifolia offers culinary and aesthetic benefits, enhancing both the garden and the kitchen. Given its native range, Cacalia delphiniifolia is hardy in temperate regions and can thrive in moist, well-drained soils.

Quick answers

What is Cacalia delphiniifolia?

Cacalia delphiniifolia, a perennial plant native to the South-Central regions of China and Japan, is a versatile addition to gardens and culinary dishes. This light-loving species thrives in partial sun or full shade and can grow up to 1 meter tall.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Cacalia delphiniifolia thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is a perennial that grows up to 1 meter tall and is native to China South-Central and Japan. For cultivation, ensure the soil is well-draining but consistently moist. Propagation can be done through seeds or division of established plants. This plant is hardy in temperate regions and is suitable for gardens where it can be grown as an edible, with its leaves being the edible part.
Light
Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Cacalia delphiniifolia for the first time

8steps

Start with Cacalia delphiniifolia as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or small plants, potting soil, containers if planting in pots.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay. Ensure containers have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep in the garden bed or start them indoors and transplant when they are strong enough to handle.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep soil consistently moist, water regularly but avoid overwatering. Place in partial sun or full shade as preferred.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water regularly during dry periods, especially if planted in full sun. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves and stems to maintain plant health and appearance. Harvest young leaves for culinary use as needed.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough shade, and failing to prune regularly.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Cacalia delphiniifolia are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often prepared in stir-fries or soups to add a mild flavor to dishes. Skip the detailed preparation methods as they were not provided in the data.
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 2 native
Asia2 regions
native (2)ChinaJapan
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Cacalia delphiniifolia (Cacalia delphiniifolia) — botanical photograph
Cacalia delphiniifolia (Cacalia delphiniifolia)
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