Crosne
stachys affinis
Also known as: ["Chinese artichoke","stachys affinis","earth nut"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant cultivated for its edible tubers, native to China.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Stachys |
| Botanical Name: | Stachys affinis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Loamy, well-draining soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer heat by providing afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun to prevent scorching; for indoor placement, use a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to diffuse intense light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Test soil pH annually; amend with organic matter before planting; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (65–75°F / 18–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoid frost; heat-tolerant with adequate water.
Use shade cloth in summer; water early in the day; protect from frost in winter.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing before tuber formation to encourage growth.
Propagation
Methods
Division of tubers or stem cuttings; division is the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide tubers into sections with at least one eye each.
- Plant cuttings in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth until roots form.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins; for stem cuttings, late spring to early summer.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light for cuttings.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; for stem cuttings, use a rooting medium with high humidity.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for stem cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
Tuber division: immediate growth; stem cuttings: roots in 3–4 weeks, establishment in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Ensure each tuber division has an eye; use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture for cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems at the base with clean cuts; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to improve air circulation and aesthetics.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Inspect for dead/damaged foliage; use clean tools; dispose of pruned material; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches (5–7 cm) in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for tuber growth.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning in cold stress; bud drop or leaf drop in temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged cold may lead to plant death.
Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., row covers); move potted plants indoors; ensure well-draining soil to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced tuber development; stress may lead to premature flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; mulch to retain soil moisture and cool roots.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply to soil, not foliage; follow seasonal schedule.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicStachys affinis is not considered toxic to cats. The tubers are not known to cause harm when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicStachys affinis is not known to be toxic to dogs. The tubers are not associated with any adverse effects when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicStachys affinis, commonly known as crosne or Chinese artichoke, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant is cultivated for its edible tubers, which are consumed as a root vegetable.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Stachys affinis easy to grow?
A: Yes, it is relatively easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance.
Q: Are the tubers of Stachys affinis edible?
A: Yes, the tubers are edible and often used in culinary dishes.
Q: Does Stachys affinis have any medicinal properties?
A: It has been used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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