Soap Lily (Chlorogalum pomeridianum)

Family: Hyacinthaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Chlorogalum pomeridianum is a BULB growing to 2 m (6ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet when slowly baked. — A slow baking in its skin will remove any soapiness in the taste.; The bulb should be peeled before being eaten since the skin is fibrous.; The bulb can also be peeled and then boiled, though the water it is cooked in should be thrown away.; Although wholesome and nutritious when thoroughly cooked, the raw bulb should not be eaten because it contains saponins.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry open hills and plains, occasionally in woods, below 1500 metres. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)