California Compass Plant (Wyethia angustifolia)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Wyethia angustifolia is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in flower from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Seed - cooked. They can be used as a piñole. The seed can be dried, ground into a powder and used as a thickener in soups or can be added to cereal flours when making bread etc. Young leaves - raw. — They can be used as a piñole.; The seed can be dried, ground into a powder and used as a thickener in soups or can be added to cereal flours when making bread etc.; Young leaves - raw.

Habitat & North American Range

Seasonally moist meadows, open grassy slopes to 1600 metres in California. (Zone 8)