How to Grow Shungiku
Glebionis coronaria
Shungiku is a fast-growing cool-season green with a distinctive aromatic flavour — essential in hotpots, stir-fries, and soups across East Asia. Sow direct into fertile, moist soil in spring or late summer; it bolts quickly in heat so avoid summer sowings. Harvest outer leaves from 20-30 cm height for best flavour, or cut the whole plant at the base. Succession sow every 3-4 weeks for a continuous supply. Hardy enough for mild frosts; protect with cloches or fleece for winter cropping.
When to Start
Direct sow outdoors as soon as soil reaches 6°C — typically early to mid spring. Hardy enough to tolerate light frosts.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Light nitrogen-rich liquid feed every 2 weeks from final position to maintain rapid, tender leaf growth.
- Sow direct in cool weather. Avoid summer sowings — heat causes rapid bolting. Succession sow from March-May and again from August-October.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 6°C+
- Germination temperature
- 10–22°C
Pet Safety
- Direct sow
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 20 cm |
| Row spacing | 30 cm |
| Sow depth | 0.5 cm |
| Mature height | 30 cm |
| Mature spread | 20 cm |
Sow densely for baby leaves (5 cm apart); thin to 20 cm for full-sized plants harvested whole.
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 6°C |
| Germination temperature | 10–22°C |
| Base growth temperature | 5°C |
| Min. daylength to start | 9h |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | long day |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Shungiku?
- Plant Shungiku 20cm apart with 30cm between rows.
- Is Shungiku frost hardy?
- Shungiku is classified as Hardy.
