Bongardia (Bongardia chrysogonum)

Family: Berberidaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Bongardia chrysogonum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in flower in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Tuber - baked or boiled. The leaves are eaten raw or cooked in the same manner as sorrel. — Tuber - baked or boiled.; The leaves are eaten raw or cooked in the same manner as sorrel.

Habitat & North American Range

Steppes, amongst field crops on clayey and solonetzic slopes. Fields, open stony hillsides and waste places. (Zone 8)