Herb latin name: Stellaria diversifolia


Family: Caryophyllaceae (Pink Family, Starwort Family)



Edible parts of Stellaria diversifolia:

Young leaves - cooked.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Perennial


Height:
30 cm
(11 3/4 inch)

Habitat of the herb:

Woods in mountains, central and southern Japan.

Propagation of Stellaria diversifolia:

Seed - sow spring in situ.

Cultivation of the herb:

Woods in mountains, central and southern Japan.

Medicinal use of Stellaria diversifolia:

None known

Known hazards of Stellaria diversifolia:

Although no mention has been seen for this species, the leaves of some members of this genus contain saponins. Although toxic, these substances are very poorly absorbed by the body and so tend to pass through without causing harm. They are also broken down by thorough cooking. Saponins are found in many plants, including several that are often used for food, such as certain beans. It is advisable not to eat large quantities of food that contain saponins. Saponins are much more toxic to some creatures, such as fish, and hunting tribes have traditionally put large quantities of them in streams, lakes etc in order to stupefy or kill the fish.

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.