Biscuitroot, Cous biscuitroot

Lomatium cous

Physical Characteristics

Lomatium cous is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. 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 and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Seed Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[257. It is usually peeled before being eaten[257]. The root can be dried and ground into a powder and then be mixed with cereal flours or added as a flavouring to soups etc[46, 61, 95, 105]. When dug up in the spring it has a parsnip-like flavour[161]. Seed[106]. No more details are given, though it is most likely used as an aromatic flavouring in cooked foods[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known