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"Ko-shiogama" (Phtheirospermum japonicum) belongs to Scrophulariaceae (the Figwort family). It is an annual herb that is distributed not only in various parts of Japan, but also in the Korean Peninsula, northeastern China, and the Amur region. This herb grows on sunny grasslands and can reach 30-60 cm in height. There are many soft glandular hairs throughout, and it is sticky to the touch. The leaves are triangular-ovate, pinnately split, and opposite. The pink-purple flowers bloom on each upper axil from September to October. The upper lip splits into 2 shallow lobes and the lower lip splits into 3 lobes. This is a hemi-parasitic plant like "Mamakona" (Melampyrum roseum var. japonicum). In addition to photosynthesis, its roots parasitize other plants and absorb water and nutrients.
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