Gallery
Gastrodia elataGastrodia elata
Gastrodia elata
Gastrodia elata
Gastrodia elata
Gastrodia elata
Gastrodia elataGastrodia elataGastrodia elataOverview
Gastrodia elata is a mycoheterotrophic perennial herb in the family Orchidaceae. It is found in Nepal, Bhutan, India, Japan, Korea, Siberia, Taiwan, and China.
Updated by lebachungtdh@gmail.com · 10/15/2026
Life cycle
From seed to productSeed tuber
**Tubers** are planted shallow and kept moderately moist; each tuber produces 1–3 shoots depending on size.
Tuber sprouting
The tuber sprouts upright shoots; seedlings rely on reserves stored in the tuber.
Growth & flowering
In season the plant opens **yellow-brown flower spikes in June–July**, adding colour and nectar for insects.
New tubers & harvest
After a full growing season the plant retreats to its storage organ; **tubers lifted after 1–2 years in autumn–winter**.
Uses
- Calms the liver and extinguishes wind.
- Used for headache and vertigo.
- Sedative and anticonvulsant.
- Relieves wind-damp and numbness.
- Supports nervous system and blood pressure.
Habitat & conservation
It is found in Nepal, Bhutan, India, Japan, Korea, Siberia, Taiwan, and China.
Conservation
Gastrodia elata has not been assessed by the IUCN Red List (NE). As a medicinal plant, it benefits from sustainable collection and propagation to protect wild genetic resources.
References
- 1Wikipedia – Gastrodia elata — Wikipedia,
- 2Kew POWO – Gastrodia elata — Plants of the World Online (Kew),
- 3Wikidata – Q650760 — Wikidata,