Eel Grass (Vallisneria spiralis)

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

Vallisneria spiralis is an evergreen Perennial. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from June to October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Water. The plant is not self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves - raw. The dried leaves contain 14.1% ash, 1154mg calcium, 3205mg phosphorus and 141mg iron per 100g. — Young leaves - raw.; The dried leaves contain 14.1% ash, 1154mg calcium, 3205mg phosphorus and 141mg iron per 100g.

Habitat & North American Range

Still and flowing water. In Britain it is found in ponds that are heated by the effluent from mills. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)