Chinese Peony
Paeonia lactiflora — Paeoniaceae
Italiano: Peonia cinese — Shaoyao
Description
Chinese Peony (Paeonia lactiflora) belongs to the Paeoniaceae family and is native to Asia. It thrives in Mountain meadows, Forest edges environments across regions including China, Japan, Korea, Far East Russia.
Botanically, Chinese Peony is petals salad decoration. Roots for medicine. Historic Chinese food.. It is also known locally as Shaoyao.
The edible parts include Petals, Roots. With an edibility rating of 4/10, it ranks as a moderate wild food source. Harvesting is best done during June and May.
Nutritionally, Chinese Peony stands out for its Vitamin K (8.0mg, 7% DV), Vitamin C (5.0mg, 6% DV) and Calcium (30.0mg, 2% DV). It also provides 0.5g protein and 1.0g dietary fiber per 100g serving.
In the kitchen, Chinese Peony offers a Floral sweet flavor profile. Petals raw roots medicinal. Common culinary applications include petal salad, decoration. Popular preparations include Peony petal salad, Roasted root vegetables, Root vegetable soup, Mashed wild roots.
For storage, fresh petals 1d.
Safety note: Petals edible. Roots medicinal large doses toxic.. Antinutrient content is roots contain paeoniflorin medicine. Always verify identification with at least three independent botanical sources before consumption.
Foragers should collect chinese peony during May and Jun. Choose young, vibrant parts for optimal flavor and nutrition. Avoid specimens near polluted areas, roadsides, or treated agricultural land.
Field identification relies on recognizing the plant in its natural habitat — typically mountain meadows, forest edges. Flowers, leaf arrangement, and growth habit provide the most reliable identification markers. Always consult at least two independent botanical sources.
Traditional Asia communities have long valued chinese peony as a seasonal wild food. Its reliable growth and nutritional density made it a valuable resource during lean periods and food scarcity.
In contemporary cuisine, chinese peony pairs excellently with olive oil, garlic, and citrus. It complements wild herbs, foraged mushrooms, and hearty grains. Experiment with both raw preparations and slow-cooked dishes to appreciate its full range.
Edibility
Harvest Calendar
Nutrition (per 100g)
Culinary Uses
petal salad, decoration
Storage
Fresh petals 1d
Recipes
- Peony petal salad
- Roasted root vegetables
- Root vegetable soup
- Mashed wild roots
- Stir-fried Chinese Peony
- Chinese Peony tempura
- Chinese Peony and tofu soup
Where It Grows
