Xu Duan
Dipsacus japonicus
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Pl. EC03 — Dipsacus japonicus
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IOverview
Overview
Xu Duan, scientifically known as Dipsacus japonicus, is a biennial or perennial plant native to China North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast regions, Japan, Korea, and Manchuria. This hardy plant thrives in moist conditions with light to partial sun exposure, making it adaptable to various soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils. Standing at about 0.8 meters tall, Xu Duan is valued for its edible leaves, which can be used in culinary applications. Its distinctive feature lies in its ability to grow across a wide range of environments, from full sun to partial shade, making it a versatile addition to gardens or landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Xu Duan?
Xu Duan, scientifically known as Dipsacus japonicus, is a biennial or perennial plant native to China North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast regions, Japan, Korea, and Manchuria.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Xu Duan thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is a biennial or perennial that grows up to 0.8 meters tall and is native to regions including China North-Central, South-Central, Southeast, Japan, Korea, and Manchuria. Propagation can occur through seeds or division. Given its adaptability in various soil types and light conditions, Xu Duan is a versatile plant for gardeners looking to cultivate it.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Biennial, Perennial
Mature size
0.8 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Xu Duan for the first time
8steps
Xu Duan is a hardy plant that can be easily grown by beginners with the right care.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, a garden fork, and a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Ensure full sun to partial shade.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep in rows 60 cm apart. Transplant young plants when they have several sets of leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once a week during dry periods. Prune dead or damaged stems in early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after flowering to encourage new growth and prevent self-seeding. Remove any yellowing leaves as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly drained soil, neglecting to prune, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: Xu Duan's leaves are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often used in stir-fries or soups to add a mild flavor and nutritional value. Skip the detailed preparation methods as specific recipes were not provided.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 6 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaJapanSouth Korea
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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