Mace (Achillea ageratum)

Family: Asteraceae [Compositae] | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Achillea ageratum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour is mild and pleasant, though it becomes stronger and aromatic when the leaves are chewed, and leaves a tingly sensation in the mouth. — Leaves - raw or cooked.; The initial flavour is mild and pleasant, though it becomes stronger and aromatic when the leaves are chewed, and leaves a tingly sensation in the mouth.; They make an acceptable addition to mixed salads, the plant is very productive, though the leaves are rather small and fiddly to pick in quantity.; They are also used in soups, stews etc., and as a flavouring in potato salad etc.

Habitat & North American Range

The origin of this plant is uncertain, it is possibly a hybrid, A. ptarmica x A. macrocephala. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)