Humboldt Mulesears

Wyethia longicaulis

Physical Characteristics

Wyethia longicaulis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). 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

South-western N. America - California.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Seed Edible Uses: Seed - cooked. It can be used as a piñole or can be ground into a powder and used with cereals in making bread etc[105, 161, 257]. Young leaves and stems - raw or cooked[105, 161, 257]. Root - cooked[46, 61]. The N. American Indians dug pits in the ground which they lined with large stones. They then burnt a fire on top of the stones until the stones were hot. The roots were placed on these hot stones, sealed in with fern leaves and earth and then fermented for one or two days before being eaten[94].

Medicinal Uses

Ophthalmic Poultice Salve Stomachic A decoction of the roots has been used in the treatment of stomach aches[257]. Externally, it can be used as a wash in the treatment of headaches and as a wash for inflamed and sore eyes[257]. A poultice of the baked roots has been applied to rheumatic joints[257]. A poultice of the dried powdered roots has been applied to burns and running sores[257].

Known Hazards

None known