Oxypolis rigidior

(L.) Raf.

Stiff cowbane

Apiaceae Edible: Roots Potential hazards — see below 2,907 iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist· cc-by

iNaturalist· cc-by-sa

Summary

Oxypolis rigidior, known as cowbane, common water dropwort, stiff cowbane, pig-potato, and Cherokee swamp potato, is a species of flowering plant in the carrot family native to eastern North America. It is a perennial wildflower found in wet habitats. Oxypolis rigidior has been reported as being poisonous to some mammals, but it is also considered edible and safe by some authors.

Description

A temperate herb in the carrot family (Apiaceae) native to temperate regions.

This description is brief — help expand it

Edible Uses

The roots are baked and eaten.

Traditional Uses

The roots are baked and eaten.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Known Hazards

Both the roots and top parts have been reported as poisonous to mammals including cattle. However, this plant is also considered edible and safe by some. Thayer states that it is "widely and erroneously reported as poisonous to livestock." He reports that the tubers are edible and says they are "fantastic in any way you'd use a potato"; he also adds that the shoots and greens are not poisonous, although he does not say they are edible as well. He calls the plant "Cherokee swamp potato" in reference to its use in Cherokee cuisine. He also warns that the plant should be gathered with “great caution” due to its resemblance to water hemlock.