Large Indian breadroot, Prairie turnip
Pediomelum esculentum

Family: Fabaceae

What it is like

A bean family herb. It grows 50 cm tall. It has a thickened tuberous root. It regrows each year. The leaves have 3-5 leaflets spread like fingers on a hand.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. It grows between 500-2,000 m above sea level.

Countries/locations it is found in

North America, USA

How it is used for food

The outside layer of the tuber is removed before eating. They are cooked.

It has been a significant food in the prairies in the USA.

Edible parts

Root, tuber

How it is grown

Mature taproots are produced after 2-4 years.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Psoralea esculenta Pursh; and others