Beaked Cornsalad

Beaked Cornsalad (Valerianella radiate)

       The native Beaked Cornsalad, endangered in some areas of the United states, is found from Oklahoma to the east coast and from Florida to Pennsylvania.
       Found in dry and damp areas, including open wooded areas, fields, pastures, roadsides and railroad tracks the Beaked Cornsalad blooms in mid to late spring.
       Growing to 20 inches tall, it produces small white, 5 segmented ¼-inch and smaller flowers. The leaves are opposite and up to 6 inches cm long. Its square shaped clusters of flowers and branching stem make this plant easily identifiable.
       This plant has both male and female organs, is self pollinating and fertile by itself. This plant is a member of the Valerianaceae or Valerian family.
       Leaves and roots of the Beaked Cornsalad are edible.
       It is not recommended that these plants be used as medicine or food since they may have bad side effects. Similar species, misidentified, may cause illness or death.