Unicorn root, Blazing Star, Star Grass, Ague-root, Colic-root, Crow-corn
Aletris farinosa
Family: Nartheciaceae
What it is like
A perennial plant which grows up to 60 cm high and 15 cm across. The leaves are narrow and sword shaped. The rootstock is horizontal and thick and fibrous. The flowers are white and bell shaped. They occur as several together in a spike at the top of the plant. The fruit are oval capsules.
There are 10-21 Aletris species. It is used in medicine. They are also put in the family Haeodoraceae and Melanthiaceae.
Where it is found
It grows naturally in South-eastern North America especially on sands and gravels near the seashore. It prefers a damp sunny position with leaf mould. Plants are hardy to -15°C.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Europe, France, Germany, Netherlands, North America (country/location of origin), USA
How it is used for food
The bulb is eaten cooked and has a bitter taste. It needs to be dried first.
Edible parts
Root, bulbs
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed or by division of the clump.