Nardoo (Marsilea mutica)

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

Marsilea mutica is a FERN growing to 0.9 m (3ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. 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. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Spores - cooked. A source of starch, the spores can be ground into a powder and used like flour. They are astringent and highly indigestible. The spores are contained in a sporocarp. — A source of starch, the spores can be ground into a powder and used like flour.; They are astringent and highly indigestible.; The spores are contained in a sporocarp.

Habitat & North American Range

Edges of ponds and lagoons, on river banks and in deep water. (Zone 8)