Arrowhead, Chinese Arrowhead; Chi Gu Sagittaria sagittifolia L. (Alismataceae)
(S. trifolia L. Var. sinensis Makino)
A perennial herb, 50-80 cm tall, growing in ponds, rice-fields and swamps. Underground corms are spherical, yellowish or brownish, with membranous scales on two or three rings. Leaves are arrowhead-shaped, 5-20 cm wide.
Origin
It is widely cultivated in China and Japan, and is probably native to these countries. The corms are usually imported to Singapore during the Chinese New Year period (Jan-Feb), mostly from South China.
Uses
The starchy corms are peeled, sliced and cooked in stews or fried. They are sometimes planted in vessels for the green arrowhead-shaped leaves.
