Red Bryony (Bryonia dioica)

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

Bryonia dioica is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER growing to 3.5 m (11ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from May to June. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is not self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young shoots - must be cooked. They are eaten in spring. Caution is advised in the use of this plant, see the notes above regarding toxicity. — Young shoots - must be cooked.; They are eaten in spring.; Caution is advised in the use of this plant, see the notes above regarding toxicity.

Habitat & North American Range

Scrub and woodland, especially on well-drained soils, avoiding acid soils. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)