Purple Jiaohua, a perennial herb belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family, is known for its vibrant purple-pink flowers. This plant typically grows to a height of 30–50 cm and features small cylindrical bulbs that form clusters. Both the stems and leaves contain astringent properties, making it unique in both appearance and function. The top of the plant produces a cymose inflorescence, which bears striking purple-pink blossoms. Native to South Africa, Purple Jiaohua has been widely introduced in the Yangyang area, particularly near the Xiaxi market in Changzhou.
The plant can reach up to 70 cm in height, with nearly spherical bulbs measuring 1–2 cm in thickness. These bulbs are covered by thin, membranous scales. The leaves are linear, ranging from 20–40 cm in length and 3–4 mm in width, with an acuminate tip and a sheathing base. The flowering stalks are long and erect, smooth, and hairless, bearing dense umbels at the top. Each umbel is nearly spherical, with six oblong-lanceolate tepals that may appear purplish or lavender in color. The stamens are equal in length to the tepals, while the pistil is slender and elongated. The plant flowers between June and August, and it thrives in wetlands on hillsides and among grasses in fields.
In terms of culinary use, the tender stems, leaves, and bulbs of Purple Jiaohua are all edible. Nutritionally, it is rich in essential nutrients—3.4g of protein, 0.4g of fat, 26g of carbohydrates, 0.9g of fiber, 100mg of calcium, 53mg of phosphorus, and 4.6mg of iron per 100g. It also contains 0.09mg of carotene, 0.08mg of thiamine, 0.14mg of riboflavin, 36mg of vitamin C, and 1mg of niacin. According to traditional Chinese medicine, Purple Jiaohua has warming properties that help improve digestion, stimulate appetite, and reduce greasiness. It is especially beneficial for those who feel weak or prone to colds. Additionally, its high content of minerals like calcium and phosphorus makes it ideal for strengthening bones and muscles, particularly for children and the elderly.
In our region, the young stems and leaves are commonly harvested between February and April. When the leaves begin to dry in June, the bulbs are collected. The entire plant is dug up, bundled, and hung in a cool, well-ventilated area for processing or sale.
The flower bulb is thick and nearly spherical, with a diameter of about 2 cm and a white membranous leaf sheath. The leaves are mostly semi-cylindrical, slightly hollow in the center, measuring around 30 cm in length and 5 mm in width. The flowering stalks are erect, growing to 30–60 cm tall, and bear globose umbels at the top. The flowers are usually purplish-red in color, with stamens longer than the petals. They bloom from May to July, adding a beautiful touch to gardens and natural landscapes.
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