Garland Chrysanthemum

しゅんぎく

Chiba Prefecture and Osaka are the main growing regions. Known as 'shungiku' in the Kanto region and 'kikuna' in Kansai. An indispensable winter vegetable in hot pot dishes such as sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, and yosenabe. Also popular in sesame dressing and ohitashi. Its distinctive herbal aroma adds character to dishes

Taste & Texture

Distinctive strong aroma and pleasant bitterness. Overcooking destroys the fragrance, so brief cooking is key. Rich in vitamin A (beta-carotene), calcium, and iron

Season

MONTHLY AVAILABILITY

Jan - Dec

PEAK

※ Season is based on domestic field-grown availability

How to Choose

  • Choose bunches with vivid green leaves that do not droop at the tips.

  • Thin, tender stems indicate younger, more palatable plants.

  • Stronger aroma indicates better flavor.

How to Store

  • Wrap in a damp paper towel, place in a plastic bag, and store in the refrigerator vegetable compartment.

  • Use promptly as the leaves dry out easily.

  • Can be blanched, drained, and frozen.

Shelf life 2-3 days refrigerated, 1 month frozen (blanched)

Nutrition Facts

Wholesale Market Data

MARKET INSIGHTS

CHEAPEST Mar ¥461/kg
BUSIEST Dec 1,224t
Volume (t)
In season
Price (yen/kg)

Source: MAFF Wholesale Market Survey for Fresh Produce (2023)

Production Ranking

100% Domestic
Osaka14.5%
Fukuoka10.7%
Chiba10.6%
Ibaraki9.6%
Gunma8.7%
Others45.8%
10%+
5%+
2%+
0.1%+
None

Map data: National Land Numerical Information (MLIT Japan)

#
Prefecture
Harvest (t)
Share
1
3,180
14.5%
2
2,350
10.7%
3
2,320
10.6%
4
2,090
9.6%
5
1,910
8.7%

Source: MAFF Crop Statistics / Agricultural Census (2023)

Top 5 Prefecture Harvest Trends (2018-2023)

Osaka
Fukuoka
Chiba
Ibaraki
Gunma