Ground Elder (Aegopodium podagraria)
Description of Ground Elder:
Ground Elder, also known as Bishop's Weed, Goutweed, or Herb Gerrard, is a widely available edible plant in the UK, known for its culinary and medicinal uses.
Ground Elder has toothed, ovate leaves that are typically grouped in fives, although the lower pair of leaves may appear as seven in some specimens. When young, the leaves are light green, shiny, and translucent, while they become darker with a matte finish as they age. It produces tiny white flowers in umbel (umbrella-shaped) clusters from May to June. The stem is hollow with a 'u' shaped groove and is close to the ground, containing only one set of leaves until the flower stem appears. It's a fast-spreading plant that can reach up to a meter in height.
Season of Ground Elder:
Ground Elder is available for foraging from spring to late autumn.
Habitat of Ground Elder:
Ground Elder can be found in various locations across Europe and Asia, including grasslands, woodlands, lawns, grass verges, near hedgerows, and sometimes in gardens.
Food Uses of Ground Elder:
The leaves of Ground Elder taste similar to parsley and can be used in the same way, either raw or cooked. Young and tender leaves are the best for consumption, but all parts, including flowers, can still be eaten as the plant ages. It's important to note that as the plant matures and flowers, its medicinal effects are greatly increased.
Medicinal Uses of Ground Elder:
Traditionally, Ground Elder was used as a treatment for gout, and it also had applications in treating conditions like rheumatism, arthritis, bladder issues, and digestive problems. Additionally, it was used to make poultices and treat burns and stings.
Safety Note - Ground Elder:
Ground Elder should not be consumed once it starts flowering, as it can have a mild laxative effect. While Ground Elder has a history of safe culinary and medicinal use, individual reactions can vary, so it's wise to use it cautiously if you're new to this wild edible.
This plant was cultivated by medieval monks for its medicinal properties and later earned a reputation as a nuisance weed due to its rapid growth. However, it remains a valuable wild edible in the UK.