Yama-Shakuyaku
Paeonia japonicafam. Paeoniaceae
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified clinician before using any herbal preparation — especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, while on medication, or for children. How we source & review →
Pl. 6123 — Paeonia japonica
Paeonia japonicaPaeonia japonicaPaeonia japonicaPaeonia japonicaPaeonia japonicaPaeonia japonicaPaeonia japonicaPaeonia japonicaPaeonia japonicaPaeonia japonicaPaeonia japonicaPaeonia japonicaPaeonia japonicaPaeonia japonica
IOverview
Overview
Yama-Shakuyaku, scientifically known as Paeonia japonica, is a perennial plant native to Japan and Korea. It thrives in light to partial shade with moist soil that can be either sandy, medium, or clay-like. This plant, which grows up to 0.5 meters tall, is valued both for its edible parts—flowers, leaves, and roots—and its medicinal uses. Known for its adaptability, Yama-Shakuyaku can tolerate hardiness zones 6-9, making it a versatile addition to gardens in suitable climates. Its distinctive feature lies in its ability to provide multiple benefits through various parts of the plant, enhancing its significance in both culinary and traditional medicine contexts.
Quick answers
What is Yama-Shakuyaku?
Yama-Shakuyaku, scientifically known as Paeonia japonica, is a perennial plant native to Japan and Korea. It thrives in light to partial shade with moist soil that can be either sandy, medium, or clay-like. This plant, which grows up to 0.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stress Relief
stresstincture
Historically used for calming effects.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Yama-Shakuyaku thrives in full to partial sun, preferring moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and grows as a perennial reaching up to 0.5 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing adequate drainage to prevent root rot. Propagate through division of mature clumps or by seed. Harvest edible parts such as flowers, leaves, and roots for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Yama-Shakuyaku for the first time
8steps
Start with Yama-Shakuyaku by planting it in a sunny spot and providing moist, well-draining soil.
- 1
What you'll need
Yama-Shakuyaku plants or root cuttings, potting mix, mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring before new growth starts or in fall after the first frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining soil mix with some sand for better drainage. Ensure containers have good drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants or root cuttings in early spring, keeping the roots moist during handling.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight for a week.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light to partial shade and regular watering, especially in dry periods. Fertilize once a year with compost.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers in early spring before new growth starts. Harvest roots after 3-4 years for use.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough drainage.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesRoot
Edible uses: The Yama-Shakuyaku plant is edible and can be used in various ways. Its flowers, leaves, and roots are all consumable. The flowers and leaves are often eaten raw or added to salads for a mild flavor. The roots can be cooked or dried before consumption.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 2 native
Asia2 regions
native (2)JapanSouth 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 (Paeoniaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Paeoniaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 61233afe-d090-4f75-9627-85d78d0e6713
Decision aid
Choosing between Yama-Shakuyaku and something else?
Continue reading
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates
Get archive updates
Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.