California Compass Plant

Wyethia angustifolia

Physical Characteristics

Wyethia angustifolia is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in flower from August to October. 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 moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America - Washington to California.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Seed Edible Uses: Seed - cooked. They can be used as a piñole[168, 257]. The seed can be dried, ground into a powder and used as a thickener in soups or can be added to cereal flours when making bread etc[168, 257]. Young leaves - raw[168].

Medicinal Uses

Diaphoretic Febrifuge Poultice A poultice of the pounded root has been used to draw blisters[257]. A decoction of the leaves has been used as a bath to promote perspiration and thereby treat fevers[257].

Known Hazards

None known