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IIIFolio · plant profile№ C919edible
Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 17 Oct 2026methodology → read

Cacalia farfarifolia

Cacalia farfarifolia
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 farfarifolia (Cacalia farfarifolia) — botanical photograph
Pl. C919 — Cacalia farfarifolia
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Overview

Cacalia farfarifolia, a perennial plant native to Japan, is known for its edible leaves and adaptability to various soil types. This plant thrives in partial sun or full shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). With a height of 1.2 meters, Cacalia farfarifolia is often found in the forests and woodlands of East Asia, where it adds both ornamental value and a food source. The leaves, which can be eaten raw or cooked, are prepared similarly to spinach, making them a versatile addition to salads or side dishes. While primarily valued for its culinary uses, this plant's ability to grow in diverse conditions makes it a useful addition to gardens. Given its native range in Japan and China South-Central, Cacalia farfarifolia is well-suited to temperate regions. For cultivation, it can be propagated via division or seed, ensuring its continued presence in both natural and garden settings.

Quick answers

What is Cacalia farfarifolia?

Cacalia farfarifolia, a perennial plant native to Japan, is known for its edible leaves and adaptability to various soil types. This plant thrives in partial sun or full shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Cacalia farfarifolia thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial grows up to 1.2 meters tall and its edible leaves can be harvested for use. For best results, plant it in a location where it will receive sufficient moisture and the appropriate amount of sunlight. Given its native range in Japan and China South-Central, this plant is hardy in temperate regions. Propagate via division or seed.
Light
Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.2 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Cacalia farfarifolia for the first time

8steps

Start with Cacalia farfarifolia 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 early fall.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay soils.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Keep in a partially shaded area.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide partial sun to full shade, and ensure the soil stays consistently moist.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves to maintain plant health and appearance.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in direct sunlight, neglecting to prune.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Cacalia farfarifolia are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often prepared in similar ways to spinach, adding a mild flavor to salads or steamed as a side dish.
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 farfarifolia (Cacalia farfarifolia) — botanical photograph
Cacalia farfarifolia (Cacalia farfarifolia)
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