Mountain Dandelion, Pale agoseris, False agoseris

Agoseris glauca

Physical Characteristics

Agoseris glauca is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor 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 - British Columbia to Manitoba, south to California and New Mexico.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Gum The solidified sap (latex) of the stem is chewed as a gum[61, 161, 177, 212, 257]. The milky latex can be collected, dried, and chewed like gum, though its flavor is mild [2-3]. The leaves are edible raw or cooked, with a lettuce-like taste and a bitter overtone. Young leaves are the best choice for salads or boiling as a green. Hairy or coarse textures may occur in some plants, but they do not interfere significantly [2-3]. The roots and flowers are presumed edible, although references are scarce. Their qualities are assumed similar to dandelion, with bitter but edible roots and mild flowers [2-3].

Medicinal Uses

Laxative Poultice Warts The following reports refer to the sub-species A. glauca dasycephala (Torr.&Gray.)Jepson. An infusion of the entire plant is used as a wash for sores and rashes[257]. The milky latex is applied to warts in order to remove them[257]. This requires constant applications over a period of weeks for it to be effective[K]. A poultice made from the latex is applied to sores[257]. An infusion of the root is used as a laxative[257].

Known Hazards

None known