Gynostemma pentaphyllum - A perennial vining plant from China, Japan and Korea. Used in these areas as an edible and medicinal plant. Leaves and young stems are served cooked. The leaves have a sweet taste. They are also used to make a herbal tea. The whole plant is used medicinally. Grows in most well drained, but moisture retentive, soil types. Jiaogulan likes part shade.