Herb Paris
Paris polyphylla
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Pl. 7A80 — Paris polyphylla
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IOverview
Overview
Herb Paris, scientifically known as Paris polyphylla, is a perennial plant native to the mountainous regions of East and South-Central China, Assam, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, Tibet, and West Himalaya. This plant is notable for its edible seed, which can be enjoyed after proper preparation, such as boiling to ensure safety before eating. Its large, divided leaves, which resemble a hand, give it the common name "Handsome Ladies." Preferring partial sun or full shade in moist, light (sandy) to medium soil, Herb Paris thrives in USDA hardiness zones 7-10. Its distinctive appearance and edible seed make it an interesting addition to shaded gardens or woodland settings. While not medicinal, its cultivation and use as a food source make it a valuable plant in certain contexts.
Quick answers
What is Herb Paris?
Herb Paris, scientifically known as Paris polyphylla, is a perennial plant native to the mountainous regions of East and South-Central China, Assam, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, Tibet, and West Himalaya.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Herb Paris thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist, light to medium soil. It is hardy in zones 7-10 and grows to a height of 1 meter. For propagation, seeds are the recommended method. This perennial is native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, China, East Himalaya, Myanmar, Nepal, Qinghai, and Tibet.
Light
Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Herb Paris for the first time
7steps
Begin by planting Herb Paris in a partially shaded area with moist, light soil.
- 1
What you'll need
Herb Paris seeds or seedlings, potting mix suitable for partial shade, and a container or garden bed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late autumn when the soil is moist and cool.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Prepare well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy) and medium textures, ensuring it's rich in organic matter.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep or transplant seedlings into the prepared soil, spacing them about 30 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide partial shade to protect young plants from direct sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly but avoid overwatering. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and stems in late winter to maintain plant health, but do not harvest seeds as they are not commonly used.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The seed of Herb Paris is edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. It is often prepared by boiling to ensure safety before eating. Skip the detailed preparation methods as they are not provided in the data.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
10 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
10 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 10 native
Asia5 regions
native (5)BangladeshChinaIndiaMyanmarNepal
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya, West Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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