Smartweed (Polygonum hydropiper)

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

Polygonum hydropiper is a ANNUAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). It is in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers wet soil and can grow in water.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves and stems - raw or cooked. They can also be made into an acid peppery condiment. They are very hot. The leaves contain about 7.5% protein, 1.9% fat, 8% carbohydrate, 2% ash. The leaves are said to contain rutin. — Leaves and stems - raw or cooked.; They can also be made into an acid peppery condiment.; They are very hot.; The leaves contain about 7.5% protein, 1.9% fat, 8% carbohydrate, 2% ash.

Habitat & North American Range

Shallow water in ponds, ditches etc and in wet places on land. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)