Snakeroot (Liatris punctata)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Liatris punctata is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from August to September, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet flavour when harvested in the spring and baked. — Root - raw or cooked.; A sweet flavour when harvested in the spring and baked.; Eating the root is said to improve the appetite.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry prairies and plains. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)