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Bei Sha Shen

Glehnia littoralisfam. Lamiaceae
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edibleperennialedibleedible rootherbmedicinalnative asiaperennial
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Glehnia littoralis (Bei Sha Shen) — botanical photograph
Pl. BF61 — Glehnia littoralis
Glehnia littoralisGlehnia littoralisGlehnia littoralisGlehnia littoralisGlehnia littoralisGlehnia littoralisGlehnia littoralisGlehnia littoralisGlehnia littoralisGlehnia littoralisGlehnia littoralisGlehnia littoralisGlehnia littoralisGlehnia littoralis
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Overview

Bei Sha Shen, scientifically known as Glehnia littoralis, is a perennial herb native to regions including Alaska, British Columbia, California, and various parts of China and Japan. This plant thrives in moist environments with light or partial sun exposure and prefers sandy or medium soil types. Standing at about 0.3 meters tall, Bei Sha Shen is recognized for its edible leaves and roots, making it a valuable addition to gardens or landscapes where its distinctive light green foliage can add interest. This herb is native to temperate regions and can be found naturally in areas such as Alaska, British Columbia, California, and parts of China, Japan, Korea, and Russia. While not traditionally used for medicinal purposes, its edible parts, particularly the leaves and roots, can enhance culinary dishes as a condiment. Due to its ornamental value and adaptability, Bei Sha Shen is a suitable choice for gardeners looking to add a unique, low-maintenance plant to their landscape.

Quick answers

What is Bei Sha Shen?

Bei Sha Shen, scientifically known as Glehnia littoralis, is a perennial herb native to regions including Alaska, British Columbia, California, and various parts of China and Japan. This plant thrives in moist environments with light or partial sun exposure and prefers sandy or medium soil types.

Compare with:Campanula edulis→Cautleya spicata→Chimney Bellflower→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Bei Sha Shen, or Glehnia littoralis, thrives in partial sun to full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that is light (sandy) or medium. This perennial, which grows to about 0.3 meters, is hardy in temperate regions and can be found in various parts of Asia and North America. For propagation, gardeners can use root cuttings or division. The edible parts include the leaves and root, making it a versatile plant for both ornamental and culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Bei Sha Shen for the first time

8steps

Start with simple soil and light conditions for a successful first planting of Bei Sha Shen.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A small garden or container, quality potting mix, and some seeds or young plants.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in early spring when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use a well-draining potting mix that's light and sandy. Ensure containers have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds in the garden after the last frost, or start young plants indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outdoors.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep soil consistently moist and provide partial shade to avoid scorching. Monitor for pests and diseases.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water regularly but avoid overwatering, especially in winter. Provide light to partial sun exposure.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves and stems after flowering to maintain plant health and appearance.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to provide enough sunlight.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: Condiment
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

17 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across2 continents· 17 native
Asia5 regions
native (5)ChinaJapanSouth KoreaTaiwanVietnam
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, California, Khabarovsk, Kuril Is., Nansei-shoto, Oregon, Primorye, Sakhalin, Washington
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Glehnia littoralis (Bei Sha Shen) — botanical photograph
Bei Sha Shen (Glehnia littoralis)
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

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