Ironwood (Cliftonia monophylla)

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

Cliftonia monophylla is an evergreen Shrub growing to 4 m (13ft 1in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils and can grow in very acid soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Damp, sandy, peat soils in alluvial swamps and bays free from mud, lime, sulphur and salt. Often also found in shallow, rarely overflowed swamps. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)