Pale indian plantain

Cacalia atriplicifolia

Physical Characteristics

Cacalia atriplicifolia is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.8 m (6ft). It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - New York to Minnesota, south to Florida and Oklahoma.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Condiment Young leaves - cooked[177]. Used as a potherb[183]. The powdered leaves are used as a seasoning[257].

Medicinal Uses

Poultice The leaves have been used as a poultice for cuts, bruises and cancers, and also to draw out blood or poisonous materials[222, 257].

Known Hazards

None known