Green Gentian (Frasera speciosa)

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

Frasera speciosa is a BIENNIAL/PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from July to August. 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 and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Root. It has been reported that the N. American Indians ate the fleshy root of this plant, but caution is advised since the roots of closely related plants are used medicinally as emetics and cathartics. See the notes above on toxicity. — It has been reported that the N.; American Indians ate the fleshy root of this plant, but caution is advised since the roots of closely related plants are used medicinally as emetics and cathartics.; See the notes above on toxicity.

Habitat & North American Range

Dryish or dampish places. Rich soils in open pine woods, aspen groves etc, 1500 - 3000 metres. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)