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Elatostema dissectum

Elatostema dissectum
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edibleperennialedibleedible fruitedible leafperennialshade tolerant
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Elatostema dissectum (Elatostema dissectum) — botanical photograph
Pl. 08C3 — Elatostema dissectum
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Overview

Elatostema dissectum, commonly known as Elatostema dissectum, is a perennial plant native to the forests of Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central and Southeast regions, East Himalaya, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam. This plant thrives in moist environments with partial sun or shade and can grow up to 0.7 meters tall. It is known for its edible fruit and leaves, making it a valuable resource in the areas where it grows. The leaves can be eaten fresh or cooked as a vegetable, while the fruit is typically consumed raw. Both parts are commonly used in local cuisine but specific preparation methods vary by region. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to adapt to various soil types, including light sandy, medium, and heavy clay soils, while requiring full or partial sunlight. While Elatostema dissectum is not known for medicinal uses, its edible parts make it an important part of the local diet in its native regions.

Quick answers

What is Elatostema dissectum?

Elatostema dissectum, commonly known as Elatostema dissectum, is a perennial plant native to the forests of Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central and Southeast regions, East Himalaya, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam. This plant thrives in moist environments with partial sun or shade and can grow up to 0.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Elatostema dissectum thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial plant grows up to 0.7 meters tall and is native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central, China Southeast, East Himalaya, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample sunlight or partial shade. Propagation can be achieved through seeds or by dividing established plants.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.7 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Elatostema dissectum for the first time

7steps

Start with Elatostema dissectum as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or young plants, potting soil, containers or garden space.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) textures.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds in the garden or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside. Transplant young plants carefully to avoid damaging roots.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in partial sun to ensure healthy growth.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full or partial sun and keep the soil consistently moist. Prune occasionally for shape and remove any dead leaves.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune plants lightly to encourage bushier growth and remove any yellowing leaves.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:FruitLeaves
Edible uses: The fruit and leaves of Elatostema dissectum are edible. The leaves can be eaten fresh or cooked as a vegetable. The fruit is typically consumed raw. Both parts are commonly used in local cuisine but specific preparation methods vary by region.
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

10 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 10 native
Asia8 regions
native (8)BangladeshChinaIndiaLaosMyanmarNepalThailandVietnam
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Elatostema dissectum (Elatostema dissectum) — botanical photograph
Elatostema dissectum (Elatostema dissectum)
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Explore further

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About this entry

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