Bunchflower (Melanthium virginicum)

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

Melanthium virginicum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.7 m (5ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Lowland prairies and moist open woods. Bogs, marshes, wet woods, savannas, meadows, along railroads at elevations of 10 - 800 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)