Canada Beadruby, Canada mayflower

Maianthemum canadense

Physical Characteristics

Maianthemum canadense is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to June. 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, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Labrador to Georgia, west to Tennessee and Iowa.

Habitats

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

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Root Shoots Edible Uses: Fruit[105, 161, 257]. We have no more details except a warning that the fruit should be used with caution. The fruit is about 6mm in diameter[200].

Medicinal Uses

Expectorant Kidney A tea made from the plant has been used in the treatment of headaches and as a kidney tonic for pregnant women[222, 257]. It is also used as a gargle for sore throats and as an expectorant[222, 257].

Known Hazards

There is a warning that the fruit should only be used with caution, but no more details are given[105].