Isodon inflexus
Isodon inflexusfam. Lamiaceae
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Pl. F751 — Isodon inflexus
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IOverview
Overview
Isodon inflexus, a member of the Lamiaceae family and commonly known as Skip, is a perennial plant native to China North-Central, South-Central, Southeast, Japan, Korea, and Manchuria. It thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun exposure and can be found growing in various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Standing at about 0.6 meters tall, Skip is valued for its edible leaves, making it a useful addition to gardens or landscapes where its ornamental qualities complement its culinary applications.
Quick answers
What is Isodon inflexus?
Isodon inflexus, a member of the Lamiaceae family and commonly known as Skip, is a perennial plant native to China North-Central, South-Central, Southeast, Japan, Korea, and Manchuria.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Isodon inflexus thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial grows up to 0.6 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, gardeners can use seeds or division of established plants. The edible parts are the leaves, which make it a useful addition to gardens where space and light conditions are favorable.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Isodon inflexus for the first time
8steps
Start with basic care for Skip, focusing on light and water.
- 1
What you'll need
A small Isodon inflexus plant or seeds, a pot or garden bed, and some gardening tools like a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in spring after the last frost or in early fall when temperatures are cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a mix of light, medium, or heavy texture. For containers, use a pot at least 30 cm wide and deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from its nursery pot to your garden bed or into a larger container. Space plants about 45-60 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place it in partial sun for the first few days.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full to partial sun and keep the soil consistently moist. Fertilize once a month with a balanced organic fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Skip after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain its shape. Cut back any dead or yellowing leaves as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, using too much fertilizer, not providing enough space between plants, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Isodon inflexus are edible and can be consumed fresh or dried. They are often used in traditional dishes, adding a mild flavor to various recipes.
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 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Lamiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Lamiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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