Floating Manna Grass (Glyceria fluitans)

Family: Poaceae or Gramineae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Glyceria fluitans is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweetish taste, the seed was considered a delicacy in some parts of Europe and was an article of commerce until well into the 20th century. — Seed - raw or cooked.; A sweetish taste, the seed was considered a delicacy in some parts of Europe and was an article of commerce until well into the 20th century.; A flour from the seed is said to make a bread little inferior to wheat bread, the flour can also be used as a thickener in soups etc when it imparts a sweet delicate flavour.; Unfortunately, the seed is very small and therefore the plant is relatively unproductive.

Habitat & North American Range

Shallow water, either stagnant or slow flowing, or in wet soils whether acid or calcareous. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)