Bastard Toad Flax, California bastard toadflax, Pale bastard toadflax

Comandra umbellata

Physical Characteristics

Comandra umbellata is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). It is in flower from April to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils and can grow in very acid soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Michigan to Alabama.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Nectar Edible Uses: Fruit - raw[60, 105]. A sweet flavour[61]. The flowers are sucked by children for their sweet nectar[257].

Medicinal Uses

Pectoral Salve An infusion of the leaves has been used to treat lung pains and laboured breathing caused by a cold or other illness[257]. The juice of the plant has been applied externally to treat cuts and sores[257].

Known Hazards

None known