Pacific Silverweed

Potentilla egedei

Physical Characteristics

Potentilla egedei is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

E. Asia. Western N. America - Alaska to California..

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[118, 172, 257]. The raw root has a bitter flavour but most of the bitterness is lost once the root is cooked and the flavour then becomes somewhat like a sweet potato[256]. The roots are rather thin but were a staple food of some North American Indian tribes[256].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Ophthalmic Poultice The whole plant is astringent[172]. A poultice of the boiled roots and oil can be applied to sores and swellings[257]. The juice from the roots has been used as a wash for sore eyes[257].

Known Hazards

None known