Broad-Leaved Spring Beauty (Claytonia caroliniana)

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

Claytonia caroliniana is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower in March, and the seeds ripen in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in starch, it has a pleasant nutty flavour. — Root - raw or cooked like potatoes.; Rich in starch, it has a pleasant nutty flavour.; Leaves and stems - raw or cooked.; A very mild flavour, they are best mixed with stronger tasting leaves.

Habitat & North American Range

Rich open woods, alluvial thickets and upland slopes. Wetlands and riparian hardwood forests from sea level to 1400 metres. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)