Hoary Balsamroot

Balsamorhiza incana

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Basic Information

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

Genus: balsamorhiza

Plant ID (slug): balsamorhiza-incana

Numeric ID: 19450

USDA Hardiness: 4-8

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Balsamorhiza incana is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in July. 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. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

North-western N. America

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[105, 161, 177]. The thick root can be eaten raw[257]. Seed - raw or cooked. It can be ground into a powder and made into a bread.

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Stomachic A decoction of the leaves, roots and stems has been used in the treatment of stomach pains and colds and as a steam bath for treating headaches[257].