Spatterdock (Nuphar polysepala)

Family: Nymphaeaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Nuphar polysepala is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.8 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies, beetles. 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.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

taste can be removed by soaking the root in water prior to use. — Root - raw or cooked.; The root can also be dried and ground into a flour.; The rather strong taste can be removed by soaking the root in water prior to use.; American Indians used the roots in times of famine.

Habitat & North American Range

Ponds, shallow lakes and slow-flowing rivers, from valleys to almost 3,000 metres in the mountains. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)