Great Water Plantain (Alisma plantago-aquatica)

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

Alisma plantago-aquatica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from June to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in starch. — Caution is advised, the root is acrid if it is not dried or well cooked before use.; Leaves and petioles - must be thoroughly cooked.; They require long boiling and have a salty flavour.

Habitat & North American Range

Ditches, damp ground and shallow pond margins in water up to 15cm deep. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)