Question: Curious what this "weed" is? Growing in sandy, disturbed soil 120 ft from a riverbed, central Maine, late May. Was …
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Question
Curious what this "weed" is? Growing in sandy, disturbed soil 120 ft from a riverbed, central Maine, late May. Was surprised to see the tuberose roots when I pulled them. Is it edible?
Answer
Dear ZealouslyB, you have photographed a species of Oenothera (evening-primrose). It is Oenothera biennis or a closely related species. The taproots are edible, they taste kind of like a parsnip with a mild peppery finish. If they are gathered from plants that are producing an aerial stem, the taproots will become leathery with a woody core. Therefore, foragers are best to direct their efforts toward vegetative (first-year) plants. Be sure to the confirm the identification, and I would encourage a small, well-cooked serving your first meal to identify if you have sensitivities to this species. Best wishes.
