Cacalia nikomontana
Cacalia nikomontana
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Pl. DC77 — Cacalia nikomontana
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IOverview
Overview
Cacalia nikomontana, a perennial plant native to Japan, thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist soil types ranging from light (sandy) to heavy (clay). Standing at about 1 meter tall, this plant is known for its edible leaves, making it a valuable addition to the local cuisine. Its adaptability to various soil conditions and its native status make Cacalia nikomontana an interesting choice for gardeners and botanists alike. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to grow well in shaded areas, contributing to its ornamental value while also serving as a sustainable food source.
Quick answers
What is Cacalia nikomontana?
Cacalia nikomontana, a perennial plant native to Japan, thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist soil types ranging from light (sandy) to heavy (clay). Standing at about 1 meter tall, this plant is known for its edible leaves, making it a valuable addition to the local cuisine.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cacalia nikomontana thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial grows up to 1 meter tall and is native to Japan, making it hardy in temperate regions. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample shade for optimal growth. Propagate through division of established plants during early spring. Harvest the leaves as needed for culinary use.
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 nikomontana for the first time
8steps
Start with Cacalia nikomontana as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small plant or seeds, a trowel, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with medium moisture. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants into a sunny to partially shaded spot, spacing them about 1 meter apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight during this period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade and regular watering. Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves in late winter to maintain a neat appearance and encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, not providing enough shade, neglecting to mulch.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Cacalia nikomontana are edible and can be consumed 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
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Japan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · dc7737f9-cd9b-4963-8c9a-c1959c9a55dc
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