Cryptotaenia japonica f. atropurpurea

Japanese Parsley, Mitsuba Apiaceae

A handsome edible woodland perennial with deep wine-purple young foliage, fading to green flushed bronze as the season progresses. Small white umbels appear in summer, adding a light touch above the foliage. Native to Japan, Korea and China, it thrives in fertile, humus-rich, reliably moist soil in partial shade, although it tolerates more sun where moisture is maintained.

Known in Japan as mitsuba, the young leaves, stems and shoots are edible and valued for their fresh, aromatic flavour, somewhere between parsley and celery with a subtle aniseed note. They are used raw as a garnish or salad ingredient and lightly cooked in soups, noodles and hotpots. Regular harvesting encourages fresh growth.

An excellent edimental for the shaded border, combining useful culinary qualities with attractive foliage.

Distribution: Japan, Korea & China
Flowering: June–August
Hardiness: H5 — approximately -15 to -10°C
Height: 30–60cm
Spread: 30–45cm