Range:

Identifying characteristics:

A perennial trailing plant growing to 5-40 cm long. The leaves are slender lanceolate, 1 - 5½ inch long and ¼ - ½ inch wide, with a 6-20 cm long petiole. The flowers are ¼ - ½ inch in diameter, with five pale pink or white (although rarely yellow) petals, flowering is between March and May.

Habitat:

Moist woods and clearings

Parts Used:

Aerial parts, Root

Uses:

Wild Food Uses:

The leaves can be eaten as a trail nibble, added to salads, or used as a cooked green. The roots are rich in starch, and can be eaten raw, or cooked. When raw the taste is described as radish like, while when cooked, they are slightly nutty.

The following text is meant for informational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose or treat any illness or injury. Always consult with a physician or other qualified medical care provider concerning the diagnosis and treatment of any illness or injury.

Medicinal Uses:

A decoction of the roots has been used to treat convulsions. Eating the raw plant will supposedly permanently prevent conception, although I would not recommend this course of action.

Medicinal Actions:

Antispasmodic, Contraceptive