Hoary Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza incana)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Balsamorhiza incana is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Root - raw or cooked. The thick root can be eaten raw. Seed - raw or cooked. It can be ground into a powder and made into a bread. — Root - raw or cooked.; The thick root can be eaten raw.; Seed - raw or cooked.; It can be ground into a powder and made into a bread.

Habitat & North American Range

Meadows and other moderately moist to moderately dry open places. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)