Heracleum sphondylium subsp. montanum
(Schleich. ex Gaudin.) Briq.
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Summary
Source: WikipediaHeracleum sphondylium, commonly known as hogweed or common hogweed, is a herbaceous perennial plant in the carrot family Apiaceae, which includes fennel, cow parsley, ground elder and giant hogweed. It is native to most of Europe, western Asia and northern Africa, but is introduced in North America and elsewhere. Other common names include cow parsnip (not to be confused with Heracleum maximum of North America). The flowers provide a great deal of nectar for pollinators.
Description
A herbaceous plant in the carrot family (Apiaceae) found in temperate regions. Multiple parts including roots, leaves, stems, and young flowers are edible.
Edible Uses
The roots and leaves are boiled and eaten. Young flowers are eaten raw or cooked. The stems are also consumed.
Traditional Uses
The roots and leaves are boiled and eaten. The young flowers are eaten.
This uses section is brief — help expand it
Medicinal Uses
Borscht derives from an ancient soup originally cooked from pickled stems, leaves and umbels of common hogweed. The young shoots are considered excellent eating by many foragers. In eastern European countries and especially Romania, H. sphondylium is used as an aphrodisiac and to treat gynecological and fertility problems and impotence. It is also sometimes recommended for epilepsy. However, there are no clinical studies to prove its efficacy at treating any of these problems. The seeds can be dried and used as a spice, with a flavour similar to that of cardamom.
Distribution
It is a temperate plant.
Where It Grows
Asia, Canada, North America, Slovenia, USA,
Synonyms
Also Known As
Gorski dežen
References (5)
- Bahadori, M. B. et al, 2016, The Genus Heracleum : A Comprehensive Review on Its Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Ethnobotanical Values as a Useful Herb. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety. 15(6): p 1018-1039 (As Heracleum dissectum)
- Bocek, B. R., 1984, Ethnobotany of Costanoan Indians, California, Based on Collections by John P. Harrington. Economic Botany 38(2): 240-255
- Lim, T. K., 2015, Edible Medicinal and Non Medicinal Plants. Volume 9, Modified Stems, Roots, Bulbs. Springer p 46
- Plants for a Future database, The Field, Penpol, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0NG, UK. http://www.scs.leeds.ac.uk/pfaf/
- H. Schinz & R. Keller, Fl. Schweiz ed. 2, 1:372. 1905
