Adenophora triphylla, also known as Japanese lady bell, is one of the 62 species of Adenophora. It is a flowering plant in the family Campanulaceae that is distributed mainly over the Korean Peninsula, Japan, and China.
Adenophora triphylla is an erect, perennial herb growing to in height. It has a white and thickened taproot, shaped like a carrot, by in diameter. Stems are white pilose with alternately arranged leaves. It has oval, almost round, serrated leaves growing to that are white, sharply pointed, and pilose. A. triphylla flowers are about long and have both male and female organs (hermaphrodite), each having 5 stamens and a pistil (the long head of the pistil overhangs the flower). Flowers are pollinated by insects. Seeds are yellow-brown colored and oblong slightly compressed, .
Adenophora triphylla grows well in a warm and sunny or slightly shaded niche, but cannot grow in full shade; A. triphylla needs alkaline soil that is slightly moisturized, or peaty soil. Plants are hardy to about . Slugs have been known to destroy its young growth or even mature plants.
Adenophora triphylla grows wild in mountains and meadows, but is also cultivated. The seed can be sown in spring and germinates in 1âÂÂ3 months. At that time, it needs a temperature of about . It can be planted out into a permanent positions while young.
Adenophora triphylla roots contain chemical compounds that are luteolin, butanol, chloroform, ethyl acetate, hexane, saponins and triterpenes.
The dried roots of Adenophora triphylla are eaten roasted, stir-fried, or pickled and are also used as seasoning in various Korean dishes.
In Korea, A. triphylla is traditionally used for sputum, cough, bronchial catarrh and to fight obesity, cancer, and inflammation. It is believed to have antifungal, expectorant, and cardiotonic effects. In addition, the water extracts of Adenophora triphylla rejuvenate estrogen in postmenopausal women.