Propagation
Surface sow fresh seed and cover with a thin layer of compost. Keep moist but not wet and maintain a temperature of 18º to 21º C. (64º to 75º F) for 21 to 60 days. the seeds may require stratification for one month prior to sowing.prick out and Pot up when large enough to handle and space 300 mm (12 in) apart when planting out.
Division of the clump during spring or autumn.
Botanic information
Leaf: The large dark green oblong ovate basal leaves are up to 127 mm (5in) wide and either tapers or formed a cordate base with a winged petiole. The entire margin may be undulating and the upper surface is textured with a prominent whitish mid-rib.the apex is acute to acuminate and the stem leaves are smaller.
Note:
The leaves may be eaten raw all cooked and have a mild flavour particularly when they are young and are used as a substitute spinach with a high content of vitamin A. the roots that contain 30% starch can also be eaten raw or cooked and are commonly boiled for use in stews and soups. They are also ground into a powder to make bread.
Flower: The small pink cyathiform flowers have 5-perianth segments and 8-stamens. They are arranged densely in a cylindrical spike that is up to 90 mm (3½ in)long by 20 mm (µ in)in diameter and appear above the foliage on a slender almost leafless scape that is up to 1 m (3ft) tall and appear from spring to early summer.
Fruit: The small achene has 3-angles and is enclosed by the persistent sepals. The small seeds are viable but the plant is commonly reproduced vegetatively to maintain true to type.