Unicorn Root - Colic Root (Aletris farinosa)

Family: Liliaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Aletris farinosa is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from May to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils and can grow in very acid soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet soapy taste. — Intensely bitter.; A bitter-sweet soapy taste.

Habitat & North American Range

Grassy or sandy woodlands, in dry or moist peats, sands and gravels, especially on the seashore. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)