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Polygonum perfoliatum (1 Page of 5) The Polygonum perfoliatum plant species is found in E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea, India. It is a member of the Polygonaceae family. Some home gardeners know the variety as Persicaria perfoliata. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Polygonum perfoliatum Family: Polygonaceae Author: L. Known Hazards: Although no specific mention has been made for this species, there have been reports that some members of this genus can cause photosensitivity in susceptible people.
Many species also contain oxalic acid (the distinctive lemony flavour of sorrel) - whilst not toxic this substance can bind up other minerals making them unavailable to the body and leading to mineral deficiency. Having said that, a number of common foods such as sorrel and rhubarb contain oxalic acid and the leaves of most members of this genus are nutritious and beneficial to eat in moderate quantities. Cooking the leaves will reduce their content of oxalic acid. People with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones or hyperacidity should take especial caution if including this plant in their diet since it can aggravate their condition[238]. Mature Height: 1.8 Mature Width: Habitat: Wet thickets and by rivers in lowland all over Japan[58].
Cultivation Notes: We have very little information on this species and do not know if it is hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of the country. We are not sure if it is a perennial or annual. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus.
Succeeds in an ordinary garden soil[1] but prefers a moisture retentive not too fertile soil in sun or part shade[200]. Repays generous treatment[1].
Plants seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits[233].
For further Polygonum perfoliatum gardening information click on one of the blue links below 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'. View their bibliography

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