Eleocharis dulcis

Eleocharis dulcis, also known as the Chinese water chestnut, is a species of sedge that is native to Asia and Australia. It is grown for its edible corm, which is a type of underground plant stem. The plant is a member of the Cyperaceae family, which includes other sedges and grass-like plants.

Description

The Eleocharis dulcis plant is a perennial that grows in marshy, wet environments. It has long, slender stems that can reach up to 1.5 meters in height. The plant produces small, white flowers at the top of the stems. The corms, which are the edible part of the plant, are round and brown, with a crisp, white interior.

Cultivation

Eleocharis dulcis is cultivated in flooded fields, similar to rice cultivation. The corms are planted in the spring and harvested in the fall. The plant prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, as long as they are wet. The corms are harvested by pulling up the entire plant.

Uses

The corms of Eleocharis dulcis are a popular ingredient in Chinese cuisine. They are often used in stir-fries, soups, and salads. The corms have a sweet, nutty flavor and a crunchy texture. They are also used in traditional Chinese medicine for their purported health benefits.

Conservation Status

Eleocharis dulcis is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like all wetland plants, it is vulnerable to habitat loss due to drainage and land development.

See Also

• Cyperaceae
• Chinese cuisine
• Chinese medicine