Putty Root, Adam and eve

Aplectrum hyemale

Physical Characteristics

Aplectrum hyemale is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in leaf from October to May, in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Quebec to Georgia, west to Minnesota and Arkansas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Pectoral Poultice The roots are macerated to a paste and applied to boils or used to treat head pains[207, 222, 257]. A tea made from the roots has been used in the treatment of bronchial troubles[222]. The roots were given to children by some tribes of native North American Indians in order to endow the children with the gift of eloquence and to make them fat[257].

Known Hazards

None known