Wood Sanicle (Sanicula europaea)

Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Sanicula europaea is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from May to September, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Leaves and young shoots - cooked. They contain saponins so should not be eaten in large quantities. A famine food, it is only used when all else fails. — Leaves and young shoots - cooked.; They contain saponins so should not be eaten in large quantities.; A famine food, it is only used when all else fails.

Habitat & North American Range

Woods, thickets and damp places, avoiding acid soils. Often found in chalk beechwoods and oak woods on loamy soils. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)