Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum)


Comments: "The common name refers to the May blooming of its apple-blossom-like flower. Although the leaves, roots, and seeds are poisonous if ingested in large quantities, the roots were used as a cathartic [laxative] by Native Americans. When ripe, the edible fruit can be used in jellies and for juice or eaten fresh. The common name Mandrake rightfully belongs to Mandragora officinarum of the nightshade family (Solanaceae), an unrelated Eurasian plant with a similar root." - NAS Field Guide to Wildflowers


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