Cryptotaenia

Cryptotaenia
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
(unranked): Angiosperms
(unranked): Eudicots
(unranked): Asterids
Order: Apiales
Family: Apiaceae
Genus: Cryptotaenia
DC.
Species

See text.

Cryptotaenia is a genus of two species of herbaceous perennial plants, native to North America and eastern Asia, growing wild in moist, shady places.

Contents

Species

Some other species previously included in this genus (as C. africana, C. calycina) have been shown by molecular evidence not to belong in Cryptotaenia.[1]

Culinary uses

C. japonica is raised as a seasoning (similar to angelica).

English names for the plant include mitsuba, Japanese wild parsley, stone parsley, honeywort, san ip, and san ye qin (from Chinese: 三叶芹; pinyin: sānyè qín). Like parsley, the flavor is clean and refreshing with a slightly bitter taste which some describe as celery-like. The sprouts are used in salads and soup. In Japan it is commonly used as a garnish in soups or atop entrees or as a sushi ingredient.

Nutritional benefits

Mitsuba's dark green leaves, stems, and pods are high in vitamin C and calcium in particular, in addition to having a strong nutritional profile.

References

  1. ^ Hardway, T. M. et al. (2004). Circumscription of Apiaceae tribe Oenantheae. South African Journal of Botany 70: 393-406. Available online (pdf file)

External links

Edible Apiaceae