Mayapple Podophyllum Peltatum
Although its leaves and roots are poisonous, the Mayapple produces an edible greenish fruit.
Plant Description
Although its leaves and roots are poisonous, the Mayapple produces an edible greenish fruit. These fruits become golden when ripe. They can be used to make preserves or jelly. These plants grow from a single stem featuring one or two umbrella-like leaves. White flowers that bloom in the spring are after hidden underneath these large leaves. The plants become dormant in the summer.
Light Needs:
Partial sun to full shade
Watering Needs:
Water regularly but do not overwater
Average Landscape Size:
Growth Height: 1’-1’6”
Growth Width: 9”-1’
Key Feature:
Flowers turn to edible fruit good for jelly or preserves
Blooms:
April
Landscape Uses:
Can be naturalized in woodland settings and wild or native plant gardens
Plant Type:
Perennial
Evergreen/Deciduous:
Deciduous
Foliage Colour:
Pale green leaves
Flower Colour:
White
Blooms:
April
Climate Zones:
3-8
Average Size:
1’-1’6” H X 9”-1’ W
Growth Rate:
Slow
Instructions:
These hardy plants prefer rich moist soil but can grown in light conditions ranging from part shade to full shade. Plants should be watered regularly. They can be propagated by dividing the plants once they have finished blooming.
Water:Water regularly but do not overwater
Sunlight:Partial sun to full shade
Special Uses
- Edible
" Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler. "
Albert Einstein