Bigroot, California manroot

Marah fabaceus

Physical Characteristics

Marah fabaceus is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER growing to 6 m (19ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from July to September. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) 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

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Used as a vegetable[177]. We do not know if the fruit, root or the leaves are used[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

The root is said to be poisonous to fish[257]. We have no reports as to whether or not it is toxic to mammals[K].