Ling, Horn nut

Trapa bicornis

Physical Characteristics

Trapa bicornis is a PERENNIAL. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It can grow in water.

Distribution

E. Asia - China.

Habitats

Pond;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Seed - cooked. A crunchy texture with a bland flavour[206]. Rich in starch, the raw seed contains a deleterious principle that is destroyed by cooking[200]. The cooked seed can be dried and ground into a powder[200].

Medicinal Uses

Antipyretic Astringent Cancer Tonic The flowers are astringent in fluxes[218]. The fruit is used in the treatment of fever and sunstroke[218]. The plant is anticancer, antipyretic and tonic[218].

Known Hazards

The raw seed contains toxins but that these are destroyed in the cooking process[200, 206].