Swertia japonica
Swertia japonica
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Pl. A6C8 — Swertia japonica
Swertia japonicaSwertia japonicaSwertia japonicaSwertia japonicaSwertia japonicaSwertia japonicaSwertia japonicaSwertia japonicaSwertia japonicaSwertia japonicaSwertia japonicaSwertia japonicaSwertia japonicaSwertia japonica
IOverview
Overview
Swertia japonica, known as Skip in English, is an annual plant native to Japan and Korea. It thrives in moist, wet habitats and prefers partial sun to shade. This plant grows up to 0.2 meters tall and can be found in light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soil types. While primarily grown for its edible leaves, it also serves as an ornamental addition to gardens due to its distinctive appearance. Its adaptability to various growing conditions makes Swertia japonica a versatile choice for gardeners interested in both culinary and aesthetic benefits.
Quick answers
What is Swertia japonica?
Swertia japonica, known as Skip in English, is an annual plant native to Japan and Korea. It thrives in moist, wet habitats and prefers partial sun to shade. This plant grows up to 0.2 meters tall and can be found in light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soil types.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Swertia japonica thrives in partial sun to shade and prefers moist to wet soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). The plant grows up to 0.2 meters tall and is native to Japan and Korea. It can be propagated through seeds or division. As an annual, it requires consistent moisture and well-draining soil for best growth. Harvest the edible leaves throughout the growing season.
Light
Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
0.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Swertia japonica for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance approach to growing Skip (Swertia japonica).
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, potting soil, containers, and watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, or start seeds indoors a month before planting outdoors.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) textures. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in moist soil. For transplants, use young plants that are about 10 cm tall.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide partial shade to avoid scorching the leaves.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly to maintain moisture levels. Fertilize sparingly with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after flowering to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy.
- 8
Common mistakes
...
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Swertia japonica are edible and can be consumed fresh or cooked. They are often used in salads for their mild flavor or steamed as a side dish. Skip the detailed preparation instructions to maintain simplicity.
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 imageXI
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Companion planting
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · a6c840a1-d42d-45f4-b76c-eb37bd136395
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