May apple

May Apple (also known as Podophyllum peltatum) is a perennial plant native to the forests of North America. It is known for its distinctive umbrella-like leaves and small, apple-like fruit.

Description

The May Apple plant typically grows to a height of 30–40 cm, with large, lobed leaves up to 20–30 cm in diameter. The leaves are typically green, but can turn yellow in the fall. The plant produces a single, white flower in the spring, which develops into a small, yellow-green fruit. The fruit is edible, but the rest of the plant, including the roots, leaves, and seeds, are poisonous if ingested.

Distribution and habitat

May Apple is found in deciduous forests throughout eastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas and Minnesota. It prefers moist, rich soils and is often found in the understory of hardwood forests.

Uses

Historically, May Apple has been used in traditional medicine by Native American tribes. The plant contains podophyllotoxin, a toxic compound that has been used to treat skin conditions and cancers. However, due to its toxicity, it should not be used without medical supervision.

Cultivation

May Apple is often grown as a ground cover in shady gardens. It can be propagated by seed or by division of the rhizomes in the fall or early spring.

See also

• List of poisonous plants
• Medicinal plants
• Native American ethnobotany

References

May apple Resources
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