Japanese Hawkweed
Youngia japonica
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Pl. 3A4A — Youngia japonica
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IOverview
Overview
Japanese Hawkweed, scientifically known as Youngia japonica, is a biennial forb or herb native to regions including Afghanistan, Assam, Bangladesh, and various parts of China, India, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. This plant thrives in moist conditions with partial sun to full sun exposure and can be found growing in light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. Reaching a height of 0.6 meters, it is notable for its edible leaves which are often used in culinary applications. Its adaptability and presence across diverse habitats make Japanese Hawkweed a noteworthy species both for its ornamental value and as an edible plant.
Quick answers
What is Japanese Hawkweed?
Japanese Hawkweed, scientifically known as Youngia japonica, is a biennial forb or herb native to regions including Afghanistan, Assam, Bangladesh, and various parts of China, India, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Japanese Hawkweed thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is a biennial plant growing up to 0.6 meters tall and is suitable for cultivation as an edible source of leaves. This forb/herb is hardy in temperate regions and can be propagated by seed.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Biennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Japanese Hawkweed for the first time
8steps
Japanese Hawkweed is a forgiving plant for beginners, making it an excellent choice for your first gardening project.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, a small trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with full sun to partial shade. Ensure the soil is well-draining, suitable for light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) types.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep and about 15 cm apart. Alternatively, transplant young plants into prepared soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during this critical period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly to maintain moisture levels. Mulch around the base for better retention and weed control.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage healthy growth and prevent disease spread.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without improving drainage, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Japanese Hawkweed are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often used in salads for their mild flavor or steamed as a green vegetable. SKIP
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
28 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
28 native · 2 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 28 native· 2 introduced
Asia16 regions
native (16)AfghanistanBangladeshCambodiaChinaIndiaJapanLaosMyanmarNepalPakistanPhilippinesSouth KoreaSri LankaTaiwanThailandVietnam
Americas1 region
introduced (1)Cuba
Oceania1 region
native (1)Tonga
Broader regions
native:Ogasawara-shoto, West Himalaya, Nansei-shoto, East Himalaya, Hainan, Kazan-retto, Malaya
introduced:District of Columbia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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