Broad-Leaved Spring Beauty, Carolina springbeauty

Claytonia caroliniana

Physical Characteristics

Claytonia caroliniana is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower in March, and the seeds ripen in May. 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 soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Nova Scotia to Saskatchewan, south to North Carolina, Ohio and Missouri.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked like potatoes[2, 22, 46, 62, 85, 183, 257]. Rich in starch, it has a pleasant nutty flavour[105, K]. Leaves and stems - raw or cooked[62]. A very mild flavour, they are best mixed with stronger tasting leaves[183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known