Green Gentian, Elkweed

Frasera speciosa

Physical Characteristics

Frasera speciosa is a BIENNIAL/PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America - California to Washington.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root[105, 106, 155, 161]. It has been reported that the N. American Indians ate the fleshy root of this plant, but caution is advised since the roots of closely related plants are used medicinally as emetics and cathartics[212]. See the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

Contraceptive Febrifuge Laxative Parasiticide Stomachic Tonic The whole plant is febrifuge, pectoral, laxative and tonic[155, 257]. An infusion of the dried, powdered leaves, or the root, has been used in the treatment of diarrhoea[257]. A cooled decoction of the roots has been used in the treatment of asthma, colds, digestive complaints etc[257]. An infusion of the plant has been used as a contraceptive[213]. Caution is advised in the use of this plant, see the notes above on toxicity.

Known Hazards

When used medicinally, large doses of the powdered root have proved fatal[155].