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Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 12 Oct 2026methodology → read

Disporum cantoniense

Disporum cantoniense
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
edibleperennialedibleedible leafperennialshade tolerant
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Disporum cantoniense (Disporum cantoniense) — botanical photograph
Pl. BAF7 — Disporum cantoniense
Disporum cantonienseDisporum cantonienseDisporum cantonienseDisporum cantonienseDisporum cantonienseDisporum cantonienseDisporum cantonienseDisporum cantonienseDisporum cantonienseDisporum cantonienseDisporum cantonienseDisporum cantonienseDisporum cantonienseDisporum cantoniense
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Overview

Disporum cantoniense, a perennial plant native to regions such as Assam, Cambodia, China South-Central and Southeast, East and West Himalaya, India, Jawa, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Sumatera, Thailand, Tibet, and Vietnam, is notable for its edible leaves and shoots. Thriving in partial sun or shade with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay), this plant is hardy in zones 7-10. Its native range extends from the eastern parts of Asia to the western regions, making it a valuable species for both its ornamental and culinary uses. The leaves and shoots of Disporum cantoniense are edible and can be prepared in various ways, including raw or cooked. Typically, they are consumed fresh or incorporated into salads for a mild flavor. This plant is known for its adaptability to different soil types while maintaining its edible qualities, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes. While Disporum cantoniense is primarily valued for its edibility, gardeners should ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Its native range in regions such as Assam, Cambodia, China South-Central, East Himalaya, India, Jawa, Laos, and other areas in Southeast Asia makes it adaptable to similar climates, providing a hardy and ornamental addition to gardens across these regions.

Quick answers

What is Disporum cantoniense?

Disporum cantoniense, a perennial plant native to regions such as Assam, Cambodia, China South-Central and Southeast, East and West Himalaya, India, Jawa, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Sumatera, Thailand, Tibet, and Vietnam, is notable for its edible leaves and shoots.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Disporum cantoniense thrives in partial sun to shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 7-10 and grows as a perennial reaching up to 1 meter in height. For propagation, gardeners can use leaves and shoots. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. This plant is native to regions including Assam, Cambodia, China South-Central, East Himalaya, India, Jawa, Laos, and other areas in Southeast Asia, making it adaptable to similar climates.
Light
Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Disporum cantoniense for the first time

7steps

Start with Disporum cantoniense by planting it in a suitable location and providing basic care.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Disporum cantoniense plants, well-draining soil, mulch, and watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant Disporum cantoniense in early spring or late fall when the weather is cooler.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and prepare containers with good drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant Disporum cantoniense from its nursery pot to your garden bed, ensuring roots are not damaged during the process.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight for the first few days.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide partial sun or shade, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Fertilize once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune Disporum cantoniense after flowering to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged foliage.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:LeavesShoots
Edible uses: The leaves and shoots of Disporum cantoniense are edible. They can be prepared in various ways, including raw or cooked. Typically, they are consumed fresh or incorporated into salads for a mild flavor.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

18 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 18 native
Asia9 regions
native (9)CambodiaChinaIndiaLaosMyanmarNepalSri LankaThailandVietnam
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya, Jawa, Lesser Sunda Is., Malaya, Sumatera, West Himalaya
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Disporum cantoniense (Disporum cantoniense) — botanical photograph
Disporum cantoniense (Disporum cantoniense)
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Explore further

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About this entry

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