Water Milfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum)

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

Myriophyllum spicatum is a PERENNIAL. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It can grow in water.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweet and crunchy, the roots were a much relished food for several native North American Indian tribes. — Root - raw or cooked.; Sweet and crunchy, the roots were a much relished food for several native North American Indian tribes.

Habitat & North American Range

Lakes, ponds, ditches etc, to 450 metres. Locally common, especially in calcareous waters. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)