Yellow pond-lily

Nuphar pumila

Physical Characteristics

Nuphar pumila is a PERENNIAL. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies, beetles. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It can grow in water.

Distribution

Northern and central Europe, including Britain, to northern Asia.

Habitats

Pond;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Seed Edible Uses: Drink Seed[177]. No more details have been seen for this plant, but since this plant is closely related to N. lutea it is quite possible that it can be used similarly. These uses are listed below. Root - cooked[2, 46, 61, 177, 183]. An edible starch can be extracted from the root[183]. A possible emergency food[61]. The root has a bitter flavour - this bitterness can be removed by leaching the root in water[K]. Leaves and leaf stalks - cooked[2, 177, 183]. Seed - cooked[105]. It can be ground into a powder and used in making bread and porridge, or for thickening soups etc[207]. The seed can also be parched, when it swells considerably but does not burst like popcorn[183]. It is then normally eaten dry[207]. A refreshing drink is made from the flowers[2, 183].

Medicinal Uses

Digestive Tonic The root is a constructive tonic that benefits the digestive organs and increases body strength[218].

Known Hazards

None known