Virginia Waterleaf, Eastern waterleaf

Hydrophyllum virginianum

Physical Characteristics

Hydrophyllum virginianum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Quebec and New England to Virginia, west to Tennessee and Kansas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Leaves - raw or cooked[2, 61]. A bland flavour[159]. The mild-tasting and tender young leaves make a pleasant addition to the salad bowl[183, K], whilst older leaves make a good spinach[183]. Only use when young, they become bitter with age[159].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Dysentery A tea made from the roots is astringent, it is used in the treatment of diarrhoea, dysentery etc[222]. A decoction, or the chewed root, has been used as a wash for cracked lips and sore mouths[257].

Known Hazards

None known