Phytolacca acinosa |
Syn. Phytolacca esculenta
Native Region: China to India
Zone Range: 7-11
Preferred Climate: Full to semi shade; well draining humus rich acidic soil.
Harvest Date: Saturday 05 December, 2009
Seed count: 20-25
Description:
A white flowering perennial with large oval shaped leaves. Flowers appear in July to August and are much loved by nectar seekers. Midgreen leaves with white veining; pink pigmentation only forms in the flowering stems when berries are forming which darkens to a dramatic deep purple. Plants reach 1.5 meters in height with half the spread. This green only form is said to be edible when young and cooked, but I wouldn't take any chances. Used as a medicinal.
Notes:
Can self sow, but this hasn't happened yet.
Cultivation:
Sow seed at 18-22*C (64-72*F) for 2-4 weeks, move to -4 to +4*C (24-39*F) for 4-6 weeks, move to 5-12*C (41-53*F) for germination.
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