Cow Cockle (Vaccaria hispanica)

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

Vaccaria hispanica is a ANNUAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). 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: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in starch. — Leaves - used as a condiment.; Seed - ground into a meal.; The seed contains 13.8 - 16.1% protein and 1.6 - 3.2% fat.; The seed also contains saponins, see notes above on toxicity.

Habitat & North American Range

A weed of cultivated fields. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)