Elecampane (Inula helenium)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Inula helenium is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

aromatic, they were used as a potherb by the ancient Romans but are rarely used at present. — Rather bitter and aromatic, they were used as a potherb by the ancient Romans but are rarely used at present.; Root - candied and eaten as a sweetmeat.; It contains up to 44% inulin.; Inulin is a starch that cannot be digested by humans.

Habitat & North American Range

Fields, waysides, waste places, copses etc, often on moist soils in shade. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)