Kudzu
(Pueraria lobata)
Nicknamed “Japanese vine”, this climbing plant impresses with its rapid growth. Originally from China, it was introduced to Japan for the manufacture of baskets where it is widely distributed.
The leaves are cooked in a salad, the clusters of its pretty purple flowers are fried in doughnuts.
The properties of its roots have long been appreciated. Indeed, Kudzu has been used to treat muscle stiffness and measles since the 6th century.