Devil's Club (Oplopanax horridus)

Family: Araliaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Oplopanax horridus is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2 m (6ft) by 2 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to August. 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.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young shoots - peeled and then cooked. Only the very young shoots are used. The roots can be chewed after peeling. — Young shoots - peeled and then cooked.; Only the very young shoots are used.; The roots can be chewed after peeling.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist woods, especially by streams and usually in rich soils. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)