Virginia Waterleaf (Hydrophyllum virginianum)

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

Hydrophyllum virginianum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

mild-tasting and tender young leaves make a pleasant addition to the salad bowl, whilst older leaves make a good spinach. — Leaves - raw or cooked.; The mild-tasting and tender young leaves make a pleasant addition to the salad bowl, whilst older leaves make a good spinach.; Only use when young, they become bitter with age.

Habitat & North American Range

Rich woods and damp clearings. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)