Zhi Mu

Otherwise known as Anemarrhena Rhizome (Anemarrhena asphodeloides), Zhi Mu is a grass-like perennial used in Traditional Chinese Medicine.  Occasionally used as a grass in landscaping, it is water-wise and hardy with yellow-white or light purple flowers in late summer or early autumn.

There is conflicting information about preferred soil types and sun preferences, but it seems like a very hardy plant and is likely capable of adapting to a wide range of situations.  I have seen it growing in full sun and it seemed very happy there.  It takes 3 years to produce useful rhizomes.


References:

• Zhi Mu at Richters
• yin yang house
• Anemarrhena asphodeloides at wikipedia
• zhi mu mythology
• more anecdotal information
• tcm info
• pfaf zhi mu growing information
• cultivation information at purdue