Mt. St. Helena Fawm Lily, Pacific fawnlily

Erythronium helenae

Physical Characteristics

Erythronium helenae is a BULB growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen from June to July. 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, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America - N.W. California.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: The following use has been noted for the closely related E. origonum and probably also applies to this species[K], which has corms 6 - 8cm long and up to 15mm thick[71]. Bulb - raw, cooked or dried for later use[183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Although no records of toxicity have been seen for this species, the following notes have been seen for another member of this genus and so some caution is advised. Skin contact with the bulbs has been known to cause dermatitis in sensitive people[65].