Squirrel Corn

Dicentra canadensis

Physical Characteristics

Dicentra canadensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - S. Quebec, Minnesota, N. Carolina, Tennessee.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root. No further details are given.

Medicinal Uses

Alterative Diuretic Tonic VD The dried tubers are alterative, diuretic and tonic[4, 46, 61]. The tubers are useful in the treatment of chronic cutaneous affections, syphilis, scrofula and some menstrual complaints[4, 213].

Known Hazards

The plant is potentially poisonous and can also cause skin rashes[222].