Cacalia peltifolia
Cacalia peltifolia
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Pl. E4C2 — Cacalia peltifolia
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IOverview
Overview
Cacalia peltifolia, commonly known as Cacalia peltifolia, is a perennial herb native to Japan and found in parts of the southeastern United States including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, and North Carolina. This plant thrives in moist, wet conditions with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil, preferring a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Growing up to 1.8 meters tall, it is notable for its edible leaves and shoots, making it a valuable resource in certain culinary traditions. Its adaptability to various habitats makes it an interesting addition to botanical gardens or naturalized areas where moisture levels are consistent.
Quick answers
What is Cacalia peltifolia?
Cacalia peltifolia, commonly known as Cacalia peltifolia, is a perennial herb native to Japan and found in parts of the southeastern United States including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, and North Carolina.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cacalia peltifolia thrives in moist to wet conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH of 5.5–6.5. This perennial plant is hardy in temperate regions and can grow up to 1.8 meters tall. It requires moderate sunlight, making it suitable for partial shade to full sun areas. For best results, keep the soil consistently moist. Propagate through seeds or division in spring. Harvest edible parts such as leaves and shoots throughout the growing season.
Light
5/10
Water
Moist, wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.8 m tall
Soil pH
5.5–6.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Cacalia peltifolia for the first time
8steps
Start with Cacalia peltifolia by ensuring you have the right conditions and care practices.
- 1
What you'll need
A container or garden bed, seeds or young plants, a trowel, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Prepare soil with organic matter; ensure it's moist but well-draining. For containers, use a mix of light (sandy), medium, and heavy soils.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep in the soil or transplant young plants, spacing them about 30 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light shade during hot afternoons, especially in warmer climates. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and shoots to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting shade in hot weather, and not providing enough organic matter.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesShoots
Edible uses: The leaves and shoots of Cacalia peltifolia are edible. Typically, they are prepared fresh, either raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. These parts can also be dried for later use.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
9 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
9 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 9 native
Asia2 regions
native (2)GeorgiaJapan
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · e4c2a9c6-a7f8-48f4-8822-cae5c2dff1b1
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