Bugleweed, Northern bugleweed

Lycopus uniflorus

Physical Characteristics

Lycopus uniflorus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. 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) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Distribution

N. America - Newfoundland to British Columbia, North Carolina, Nebraska and Oregon

Habitats

Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[55, 61, 62, 105, 161]. The roots were a staple food for some native North American Indian tribes[257]. The crisp white tubers can be eaten raw in salads or cooked in soups etc[183]. When boiled for a short time they are said to make an agreeable vegetable, somewhat like Chinese artichokes (Stachys affinis)[183].

Medicinal Uses

Antitussive Sedative The whole plant is antitussive and sedative[61].

Known Hazards

None known