Tien Ma
Gastrodia elatafam. Orchidaceae
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Pl. 4D8E — Gastrodia elata
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IOverview
Overview
Tien Ma, scientifically known as Gastrodia elata, is a perennial plant native to regions including Assam, China North-Central, and Japan. This species thrives in partial sun or full shade with moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types from light sandy to heavy clay. It grows up to 1 meter tall and is hardy within USDA zones 5-9. Tien Ma is both edible and medicinal; its roots are used for culinary purposes and traditional remedies. This plant is notable for its distinctive aerial roots that grow above the ground, aiding in support and nutrient absorption from the air.
Quick answers
What is Tien Ma?
Tien Ma, scientifically known as Gastrodia elata, is a perennial plant native to regions including Assam, China North-Central, and Japan. This species thrives in partial sun or full shade with moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types from light sandy to heavy clay.
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.
Nourishing Balance
immunetincture
Used traditionally to support immune health.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tien Ma thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 5-9 and grows as a perennial, reaching up to 1 meter in height. For propagation, the root can be divided or grown from seed. Ensure consistent moisture for best results.
Light
Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Tien Ma for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, light-shaded spot in your garden for Tien Ma.
- 1
What you'll need
A shady area, well-draining soil, and patience.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late autumn when the weather is cool.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with good drainage. Avoid overly wet conditions.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from a nursery or divide mature clumps in early spring.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and avoid direct sunlight during this period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade, keep the soil consistently moist, and mulch to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Focus on maintaining the plant's health; roots can be harvested after 3-5 years if needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, and neglecting to provide enough shade are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Tien Ma is edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. Typically, it is prepared in soups or stir-fries to enhance flavor and texture. Dried roots are also used, often steeped for teas or ground into powders for culinary applications.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
16 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
16 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 16 native
Asia6 regions
native (6)ChinaIndiaJapanNepalSouth KoreaTaiwan
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya, Khabarovsk, Kuril Is., Primorye, Sakhalin
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 (Orchidaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Orchidaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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