Mayapple, American Live root (Podophyllum peltatum), Organic

Family:  Mayapple (Podophyllaceae)

Hardy to Zones 3 to 9

(American Mayapple, American Mandrake) Colony-forming perennial native to the Eastern US. Each stalk is crowned by  a single, wide, softly turgid, palmate leaf. Many leaves lock together to form a sort of communal umbrella that shades the ground and helps maintain fertility.  In spring a waxy, white flower of delightful fragrance erupts and gives way to the greenish, apple-like fruits.  A bed of mayapple makes a magical landscape feature.  Traditional usage of the rhizome (American Indian, TWM):  anticarcinogenic and liver stimulant. Low-dose botanical, potentially toxic at high doses.   The plants will tolerate full sun but prefer part shade and grow best in rich, moist soils. Nestle the root down horizontally 1 inch deep in the mineral soil and leave the growing tip angled up.   Mulch with leaves.  Space plants 1 to 2 feet apart.

Live Root, certified organically grown