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, light to medium soil, making it well-suited for gardens where these conditions are met. Known for both 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, often prepared in stir-fries or soups to add a unique flavor to dishes. However, raw consumption may not be palatable. Additionally, this plant has a long history of traditional medicine, with documented use in treating various ailments. Cnidium japonicum is a biennial to perennial, growing up to 0.2 meters tall before flowering and setting seed. While it is hardy in temperate regions, ensure the soil is well-draining but keep it consistently moist for optimal growth. This plant is a versatile addition to gardens, offering both ornamental and practical benefits.
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, light to medium soil, 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, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium. This biennial or perennial can grow up to 0.2 meters tall. It is hardy in temperate regions and is native to Japan, Korea, Manchuria, and Ogasawara-shoto. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist and provide ample sunlight. Propagation can be done through seeds or division of established plants. The edible parts are the leaves, which can be harvested for culinary or medicinal 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
Compare with similar plants
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