Tormentil (Potentilla erecta)

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

Potentilla erecta is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

rich in tannin, long boiling converts this into a gum and it can then be eaten . — The roots are extremely rich in tannin, long boiling converts this into a gum and it can then be eaten.; An emergency food, it is only eaten when all else fails.; A tea is made from the rhizomes.

Habitat & North American Range

Grassland, heath, bog, fens, mountain tops and open woods, especially in light acid soils. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)