Chinese Arrowroot
Sagittaria trifoliafam. Alismataceae
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Pl. 2FBF — Sagittaria trifolia
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IOverview
Overview
Chinese Arrowroot, scientifically known as Sagittaria trifolia and belonging to the Alismataceae family, is a perennial plant native to regions across Asia including Afghanistan, China, India, and Southeast Asian countries like Cambodia and Vietnam. It thrives in wet environments with light to partial sun exposure, making it adaptable to various soil types such as sandy, medium, and clay. Known for its edible leaves and roots, this plant can grow up to 1 meter tall, contributing to local cuisines. Its distinctive arrow-shaped leaves set it apart from other species within the same family.
Quick answers
What is Chinese Arrowroot?
Chinese Arrowroot, scientifically known as Sagittaria trifolia and belonging to the Alismataceae family, is a perennial plant native to regions across Asia including Afghanistan, China, India, and Southeast Asian countries like Cambodia and Vietnam.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Chinese Arrowroot thrives in full to partial sun and requires wet conditions, making it suitable for ponds or bog gardens. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. Hardy in zones 10-12, this perennial can grow up to 1 meter tall. Propagate by dividing the roots in spring or from seeds sown directly into moist soil. Harvest its edible leaves and root for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Wet, Water
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Chinese Arrowroot for the first time
8steps
Chinese Arrowroot is a forgiving plant for beginners, but it requires consistent moisture and sunlight.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, potting soil, container with drainage holes.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring when the risk of frost has passed.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a container that is at least 30 cm deep. Fill it with well-draining soil, mix in some sand if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant seeds 2-3 cm deep or transplant small plants into the center of the container.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist. Place the container in a sunny spot, ensuring it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and stems in late winter to encourage new growth. Harvest young leaves for cooking as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting regular fertilization.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: The Chinese Arrowroot's leaves and roots are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked as a vegetable. Roots are typically dug up and boiled before consumption. Both parts add a mild flavor to dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Asia14 regions
native (14)BangladeshCambodiaChinaIndiaIranIraqJapanKazakhstanLaosMyanmarNepalSouth KoreaThailandUzbekistan
Broader regions
native:Amur, Buryatiya, Chita, East Himalaya, Hainan, Khabarovsk, Krasnoyarsk, Malaya, Nansei-shoto, Nicobar Is., Transcaucasus
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
5 related
See also
5 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Alismataceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Alismataceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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