Pediomelum esculentum

Pediomelum esculentum

Pediomelum esculentum, also known as the Prairie Turnip or Indian Breadroot, is a perennial herb native to North America. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is known for its edible tuberous roots.

Description

Pediomelum esculentum is a perennial herb that grows up to 30 cm tall. The leaves are pinnately compound, with 5-7 leaflets. The flowers are blue to purple and bloom from May to July. The fruit is a legume, which is typical for the Fabaceae family.

Distribution and Habitat

Pediomelum esculentum is native to the Great Plains of North America, from Canada to Texas. It grows in prairies, open woods, and hillsides. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure.

Uses

The tuberous roots of Pediomelum esculentum were traditionally used by Native American tribes as a food source. They were often ground into flour and used to make bread, hence the common name Indian Breadroot. The roots were also used medicinally to treat various ailments.

Cultivation

Pediomelum esculentum can be grown from seed. It requires well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in poor soil conditions.

Conservation Status

Pediomelum esculentum is not currently listed as threatened or endangered. However, its habitat is being lost due to agricultural development and urbanization.

See Also

• Fabaceae
• Prairie Turnip
• Indian Breadroot

References

• Pediomelum esculentum. The Plant List. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/ild-32858
• Pediomelum esculentum. USDA Plants Database. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PEES2
• Pediomelum esculentum. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282569