Avelanche Lily, White avalanche-lily

Erythronium montanum

Physical Characteristics

Erythronium montanum is a BULB growing to 0.3 m (1ft). It 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 - Oregon to British Columbia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Lawn;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Bulb - raw, cooked or dried for later use[207]. An important food for the indigenous N. American Indians[207]. The narrowly ovoid bulbs are up to 6cm long[270].

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].