California False Hellebore (Veratrum californicum)

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

Veratrum californicum is a PERENNIAL growing to 2.5 m (8ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Swamps, creek bottoms, moist woodlands and meadows, from lowland to the sub-alpine zone. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)