Speargrass (Aciphylla squarrosa)

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

Aciphylla squarrosa is an evergreen Perennial growing to 2.5 m (8ft) by 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in leaf all year, in flower from June to July. 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: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Root - cooked. Aromatic. A very good taste. The resin is used as a chewing gum. Shoots and young stems. No further details. — A very good taste.; The resin is used as a chewing gum.; Shoots and young stems.; No further details.

Habitat & North American Range

Found from sea-level to montane areas in North and South Islands to latitude 41° 30' south. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)