Isodon japonicus
Isodon japonicusfam. Lamiaceae
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Pl. 89B8 — Isodon japonicus
Isodon japonicusIsodon japonicusIsodon japonicusIsodon japonicusIsodon japonicusIsodon japonicusIsodon japonicusIsodon japonicusIsodon japonicusIsodon japonicusIsodon japonicusIsodon japonicusIsodon japonicusIsodon japonicus
IOverview
Overview
Isodon japonicus, a member of the Lamiaceae family and commonly known as Skip, is a perennial plant native to regions including Amur, China North-Central, China South-Central, Japan, Khabarovsk, Korea, Manchuria, and Primorye. This plant thrives in moist conditions with light to partial sun exposure and can grow up to 1 meter tall. Its edible leaves are often utilized, making it a valuable addition to gardens for both their ornamental appeal and culinary use. One distinctive feature of Isodon japonicus is its adaptability to various soil types—light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay)—allowing it to grow in diverse environments.
Quick answers
What is Isodon japonicus?
Isodon japonicus, a member of the Lamiaceae family and commonly known as Skip, is a perennial plant native to regions including Amur, China North-Central, China South-Central, Japan, Khabarovsk, Korea, Manchuria, and Primorye.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Isodon japonicus thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial can grow up to 1 meter tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For best results, keep the soil consistently moist and provide ample sunlight. Propagate through division of clumps in spring or from seed sown in late winter. The leaves are edible and can be used fresh or dried.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Isodon japonicus for the first time
8steps
Start with Skip by planting it in a sunny spot and providing moist, well-draining soil.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip plants, a trowel, compost, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in early spring or late fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Prepare soil with light organic matter; ensure it's well-draining. For containers, use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and compost.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip seedlings into the garden once they have at least two sets of true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, keeping soil consistently moist. Prune after flowering to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Skip in late winter before new growth starts to encourage bushy foliage and prevent legginess.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting regular pruning, and allowing the plant to become too leggy.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Isodon japonicus are edible and can be consumed fresh or used in various preparations. They are often eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. The plant's light preference for full sun to partial shade and its ability to thrive in moist soil makes it suitable for gardens where these conditions prevail.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 2 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 8 native· 2 introduced
Asia4 regions
native (3)ChinaJapanSouth Korea
introduced (1)India
Broader regions
native:Amur, Primorye, Khabarovsk
introduced:West Himalaya
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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