Cnidium japonicum
Cnidium japonicumfam. Apiaceae
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Pl. 410E — Cnidium japonicum
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IOverview
Overview
Cnidium japonicum, a member of the Apiaceae family, is native to Japan, Korea, Manchuria, and Ogasawara-shoto. This plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that is light or sandy, making it well-suited for gardens where these conditions are met. Known both for its culinary and medicinal uses, Cnidium japonicum has been utilized by various cultures. Its edible parts include the leaves, which can be used fresh or dried. Additionally, this plant has a long history of traditional medicine, with documented use in treating various ailments. One distinctive feature is its biennial to perennial nature, growing up to 0.2 meters tall before flowering and setting seed.
Quick answers
What is Cnidium japonicum?
Cnidium japonicum, a member of the Apiaceae family, is native to Japan, Korea, Manchuria, and Ogasawara-shoto. This plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that is light or sandy, making it well-suited for gardens where these conditions are met.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Cnidium japonicum support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cnidium japonicum thrives in full sun and prefers moist, light to medium soil. It can grow up to 0.2 meters tall and is both biennial and perennial. The plant is hardy in temperate regions and is native to Japan, Korea, Manchuria, and Ogasawara-shoto. For cultivation, ensure the soil is well-draining but keep it consistently moist. Propagate through seeds or division of established plants. Harvest its edible leaves for use.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Biennial, Perennial
Mature size
0.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Cnidium japonicum for the first time
8steps
Skip is a straightforward biennial plant for beginners, focusing on basic care and harvesting.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, gardening gloves, small trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, or as a biennial in fall.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; ensure containers are at least 30 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep, spaced 30 cm apart; thin to 45 cm if growing from seedlings.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist and protect young plants from pests with gloves.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after flowering to encourage new growth; harvest leaves as needed for culinary use.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to mulch.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Cnidium japonicum are edible and can be consumed fresh or cooked. They are often prepared in stir-fries or soups to add a unique flavor to dishes. Skip the raw use as it may not be palatable.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaJapanSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Ogasawara-shoto
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Apiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Apiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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