Wild Spaniard (Aciphylla colensoi)

Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Aciphylla colensoi is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.9 m (3ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is not self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Root - cooked. Aromatic. The plant yields a resin that is used as a chewing gum. Shoots. No further details. — The plant yields a resin that is used as a chewing gum.; No further details.

Habitat & North American Range

Montane to sub-alpine altitudes in North and South Islands between latitudes 38 and 43° 30' south. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)