Japanese pagoda tree

Profile

Family

Fabaceae

Habit

Tree

Height

20 m

Spread

15 m

Growth

fast

Lifespan

250 years

First yield

after 20 years

Hardiness

zone 5–9

Shade tolerance

light shade

Soil

Sand, Silt

Soil moisture

very dry – moist

pH

6 – 9

Flowering & harvest

Times apply to the northern hemisphere in a temperate climate and shift with altitude and cultivar.

Uses

Edible: Young leaves & flowers (cooked) (tea); Seeds (starch) - Leaves need to be boiled in three portions of water to remove bitterness - Contains a lot of rutin, more than buckwheat - Tea made from young leaves and flowers possible - Edible starch extracted from seeds

Medicinal: This plant species is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine and is considered one of the 50 fundamental herbs. In a study of 250 potential anti-fertility agents, it ranked second. The flowers and flower buds possess antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and blood pressure-lowering properties. The ovaries are particularly rich in rutin, a valuable agent for lowering blood pressure. The buds, flowers, and pods are used to treat various conditions such as internal bleeding, poor circulation, and internal worms. The seed pods have abortifacient properties, while the seeds are used for hemorrhoids, blood in the urine, uterine bleeding, and other ailments. The leaves have a laxative effect and are employed in cases of epilepsy and spasms. A decoction of the stems is used to treat hemorrhoids, irritated eyes, and skin problems. It is important to use this plant with caution as it can be toxic. Pregnant women are advised against its use.

Origin & habitat

China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan

Dry shrubs and rocky places, especially near the sea.

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