Question: Hi, I think this plant may be ginseng, but am not sure. The second photo shows a bit of the …
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Question
Hi, I think this plant may be ginseng, but am not sure. The second photo shows a bit of the root. It is growing in woodland near a stream in southern Vermont. Thanks for your help. lmc825
Answer
Dear Imc825, this plant is a woody species with opposite, pinnately compound leaves. Panax quinquefolius (American ginseng) is an herbaceous plant with (usually) whorled, palmately compound leaves. It looks as though you have photographed a Sambucus (elderberry) seedling. Best wishes.
