Oregon Sunflower (Balsamorhiza sagittata)

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

Balsamorhiza sagittata is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). 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, Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet taste when cooked. — Root - raw or cooked.; The root has a thick crown that is edible raw.; Roots have a sweet taste when cooked.; A long slow baking is best, the Flathead Indians would bake them in a fire pit for at least 3 days.

Habitat & North American Range

Open hillsides and flat land up to moderate elevations, especially on deep soils. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)