American Lopseed (Phryma leptostachya)

       The American Lopseed a native to the United States is also found in China and Japan. Found in the eastern half of the United States and California the Lopseed blooms in late spring and summer. Producing small quarter inch white, sometimes purple or lavender tinged flowers, the American Lopseed grows in and along margins of moist wooded areas. The Plant reaching heights of three feet have leaves up to six inches long which is in sharp contrast to the small one quarter inch flowers.
       The common name Lopseed comes from the downward facing seeds which form along the stem margins
       The roots of the Lopseed have been used for treatment of sore throats, fever and arthritis as well as treatment of skin aliments such as boils and sores.

Warning: It is not recommended that these plants be used as medicine or food since many similar species may cause illness or death.