Ling (Trapa bicornis)

Family: Trapaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Trapa bicornis is a PERENNIAL. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It can grow in water.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in starch, the raw seed contains a deleterious principle that is destroyed by cooking. — A crunchy texture with a bland flavour.; Rich in starch, the raw seed contains a deleterious principle that is destroyed by cooking.; The cooked seed can be dried and ground into a powder.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)