Caltha (Caltha leptosepala howellii)

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

Caltha leptosepala howellii is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, beetles, flies. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Root - cooked. A survival food, used when all else fails. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Flower buds - cooked. Added to stews etc or pickled as capers. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. — A survival food, used when all else fails.; Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.; Flower buds - cooked.; Added to stews etc or pickled as capers.

Habitat & North American Range

Wet alpine and sub-alpine places. Bogs and wet ground by streams, 1500 - 3000 metres. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)