Stemless perennial; a single leaf (up to 50 cm high) rises above the short flower stalk, both produced from a stout woody rhizome. Leaves a single, long-stalked compound, basal leaf divided into 3 groups of 3-5 leaflets; leaflets elongated lance- to egg-shaped, finely toothed on the margins. Flowers numerous, in 2 - 7 (usually 3) umbrella or ball-shaped clusters on top of a leafless stalk; individual flowers very small, with 5 greenish-white petals; naked, flowering stems hidden under leaf; appearing early summer. Fruit berries, nearly black when ripe, in a cluster; edible but not palatable; ripening mid-summer.
Herb Effects
Alterative, diaphoretic, diuretic, pectoral and stimulant (root)
In the treatment of pulmonary diseases, cough, asthma, rheumatism, stomach aches and cystitis (root); used as a poultice in treating rheumatism, sores, burns, itchy skin, ulcers and skin problems such as eczema (root paste)
Health Remedies 
Return to top