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MAYAPPLE
(Podophyllum peltatum)
American mandrake, ground lemon
Description:
Perennial, with dark brown, fibrous, jointed rootstock, produces
a simple, round stem, forks at top into 2 petioles, each supporting
a large, round, palmately 5-9 lobed, yellowish-green leaf. Solitary,
waxy-white or cream flower, on a short peduncle from fork in stem.
Eastern U.S. in open woodlands.
EDIBLE-MEDICINAL:
Yellow berry relished for making marmalade, preserves, eat sparingly.
Used in beverages. Rootstock is effective as a powerful purgative,
overdose could be fatal. Used during pregnancy, may cause birth
defects in the child. Use under medical supervision only.
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