Harbinger Of Spring

Erigenia bulbosa

Physical Characteristics

Erigenia bulbosa is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). It is in flower from February to April. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

North-eastern N. America - S. Ontario to New York, west to Minnesota and Kansas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[207].

Medicinal Uses

Odontalgic The plant has been chewed to bring relief from toothache[257]. No details are given as to which part of the plant is used.

Known Hazards

None known