1 g. Polygonum multiflorum seeds, Ho-shou-wu, TCM, China
aka Fallopia multiflora, He shou wu, fo-ti-tieng, Chinese knotweed, flowery knotwood, climbing knotweed, or Fo-ti (a western misnomer). A vining herbaceous perennial native to China. This vine is almost unstoppable and is a good choice for summer shade, awnings, shade porches, fences, trees, etc. An amazing climber, in my garden this plant is about 35 ft. tall, up and over the nearest tree. Plant prefers full sun and rich soil, but will thrive in most environments.
Traditional usage: In TCM, the processed root tubers are used to nourish the 'jing' (or kidney essence) and also to strengthen the heart energy. The plant is considered a sexual tonic in China. In Chinese herbalism it is thought to unblock the channels of energy through the body, allowing the escape of pathogenic influences. The harvested root has a distinctive bitter-sweet taste.
Plant seeds in spring in normal potting soil. Space plants four to five feet apart. It flowers from September to October, and the seeds ripen from October to November. This species is hermaphrodite (it has both male and female organs). It is pollinated by insects.
Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or full sun. Medium water.
China