May apple
Podophyllum peltatum
Family: Berberidaceae
What it is like
An erect, 1-stemmed may-apple herb. It often forms colonies. There are creeping underground stems and thick fibrous roots. It keeps growing from year to year. It grows 60 cm high and spreads 60 cm wide. It produces one or two, large lobed leaves. These are 30 cm across and have 3-9 lobes. They turns orange brown with maturity. The flowering stem has 2 or 3 leaves or can be leafless. The flowers are white. They occur singly and are nodding and cream. The fruit are lemon shaped and 4-5 cm across. . They are yellow. They are edible.
It has proven anticancer properties. The active ingredient is etoposide.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It needs moist, peaty soils and a shady location. It suits hardiness zones 4-6.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Canada, Europe, France, North America (country/location of origin), Slovenia, USA
How it is used for food
CAUTION: The roots, leaves and seeds are poisonous. The ripe fruit are eaten. It is often made into marmalade. It can be used for jams, jellies, pies and drinks.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
Plants are grown from seeds. They can also be grown by division of the rhizome.
Its other names
Local names
American Mandrake, Devil's apple, Hog apple, Indian apple, Mandrake, Raccoon-berry, ščitasto majsko jabolko, Wild Lemon