Codonopsis lanceolata - the original climbing perennial

The homeland of this amazing climbing perennial is the Far East, where you can find codonopsis lacentum in wild nature. The plant loves hilly terrain and is often found on slopes or in river valleys. Its height can reach 2 meters. The roots of the plant are similar to radishes, thick and long. Codonopsis lacentata has bare climbing stems and clustered gray-green leaves, which are called chyrocolacentate. The leaves of the plant are beautiful, slightly fleecy.

The flowers of the plant are bell-shaped, very elegant and beautiful, have bluish-green or purple edges, the same spots and specks. The seeds of the plant are smooth and dull, winged. Codonopsis blooms throughout July-August.

In addition to high decorative qualities the plant has medicinal properties. Its roots are harvested and used in the preparation of medicines to improve immunity, treat coughs, anemia, intestinal diseases, diabetes, and atherosclerosis. Moreover, it is not without reason that the roots of the plant are considered substitute for ginseng.

You can also grow codonopsis lacentus in the middle zone. The plant prefers nutritious and fairly loose soil, well-lit and slightly shaded places. Those who want to grow codonopsis should take into account that the plant is extremely demanding on soil moisture. Although the plant is considered winter-hardy, it will still require preventive shelter for the winter period. Coniferous spruce branches are quite suitable for this.

Codonopsis is grown from seeds, which are planted in the ground in the spring. The plant does not like transplants. For normal growth of codonopsis, support will be required.