TAKAO 599 MUSEUM

Treasures of Mt. Takao

Mt Takao is located at the borderline of warm-temperature zone and cool-temperature zone and various plants from both zones grow. There are a lot of naturally grown plants and their visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers. Over 1,500 kinds of plants are confirmed which is relevant to the number of kinds naturally grow in England. Also, over 60 kinds of plants are first found in Mt. Takao such as Takao Sumire (V. yezoensis f. discolor) and Takao Higodai (Saussurea sinuatoides).

Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Five-leaf Ginseng)
Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Five-leaf Ginseng) Cucurbitaceae
Perennial vines found in mountainous forest edge. Have stems that trail around ground and then twine adjacent plants. It is named after Amacha (Sweet tea, a kind of hydrangea) served at flower festival to celebrate the birthday of Buddha because leaves have slightly sweet taste. Leaves and stems are brewed as gynostemma pentaphyllum tea. Flowers are star-shaped, about 5 mm in diameter, light green, dioecious and bloom randomly from the axils of leaves. Five leaves are like bird feet and alternate. In autumn, bear fully moistened fruits and about 7 mm in diameter. Fruits have a ring-like line and greenish black when ripe. Vines are edible, stir-fry or deep fry.

●Season  August to about September
●Height  Vine
●Place  Ura-Takao
※Quotation from Mount Takao formula application
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