Dang Shen (Codonopsis pilosula)

A very hardy herbaceous climbing perennial.  It can tolerate UK winters.  Reaches 2-3 metres tall with pretty white bell flowers in summer.  Will require something to scramble over or climb up.  It likes ‘Feet in the shade, head in the sun’.

An important herb in traditional Chinese medicine – it is used as a substitute for ginseng and as such has coined the name ‘Poor Man’s Ginseng’.  It is used as a tonic for revitalising Qi energy with in the body.

Root is used medicinally – particularly for treating fatigue and loss of appetite – and can be dug up after 2-3 years.  Can also be used as a root vegetable.

Always consult a professional before using herbs medicinally