Oenanthe javanica Water dropwort (Umbelliferae)

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Oenanthe javanica
Water dropwort
(1 Page of 5)

The Oenanthe javanica plant species is found in E. Asia - Japan, Korea to Australia. It is a member of the Umbelliferae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Water dropwort. Some home gardeners know the variety as O. stolonifera.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Oenanthe javanica
Common Name:  Water dropwort
Family:  Umbelliferae
Author:  (Bl.)DC.

Known Hazards:  Although no specific mention of toxicity has been seen for this species, it belongs to a genus that contains a number of very poisonous plants and so some caution is advised[K]. It is said to contain the alleged 'psychotroph' myristicine[218].

Mature Height:  1   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Ditches, ponds and wet places in lowland areas all over Japan[58].

Edible Uses: Young leaves and stems - raw or cooked[2, 46, 61, 105]. The leaves are also used as a seasoning in soups etc[179, 183]. The flavour is reminiscent of carrots or parsley[206]. The young shoots that sprout from the root in winter are best[116, 206]. A major vegetable in many parts of the Orient, the leaves are a rich source of vitamins and minerals (Analysis available)[218]. Root - cooked. Highly esteemed in Japan[116], the roots can grow up to 30cm long in water[183]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Seed is said to be edible[183].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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