Goutweed

Description

Aegopodium is a plant genus of the carrot family Apiaceae native to Europe and western Asia. It is represented by about seven species, all are perennial herbs. Flowers are compounded, umbels appearing in spring-summer and are visited by many types of insect pollinators. Fruit consists of two-winged or ribbed nuts that separate on ripening. The most well-known member is the Aegopodium podagraria, the ground elder also known as snow-on-the-mountain, Bishop's weed, goutweed, native to Europe and Asia. It is variegated green and white that sometimes reverts to solid green within a patch. Small, white, five-petal flowers are held about three feet high, above the leaves, in flat topped clusters. Underground are long white branching rhizomes that vaguely resemble quackgrass. Regarded as an ecological threat, goutweed is aggressive, invasive and forms dense patches reducing species diversity in the ground layer. On the other hand, because of this, it is often used as a low maintenance ground cover. Cultivation Frost hardy but drought tender, preferring moist well-drained soil in an open sunny position. Propagate from seed or rhizome. Aegopodium podagraria Common Name: Bishop's Goutweed, Snow on the Mountain Family: Apiaceae Habitat: Aegopodium podagraria is native to Europe and Asia, but it has been introduced and naturalized in other regions including North America. It can be found in moist, shady locations such as forests, river banks, and meadows. Description: Aegopodium podagraria is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to 60 cm in height. It has distinctive triangular stems with three-lobed leaves that resemble maple leaves. The leaves are bright green and can grow up to 20 cm in length. In summer, small white flowers are produced in flat-topped umbels that are held above the foliage. Cultivation: Bishop's goutweed is known for its aggressive growth habit and ability to quickly spread via its creeping root system. Despite this, it is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and hardiness. It can be propagated by dividing the roots or stem cuttings. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, but it is adaptable to a range of growing conditions. Uses: Despite its invasive nature, Bishop's goutweed has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. The leaves and roots of the plant contain a variety of compounds that have been used to treat gout, rheumatism, and other joint pains. The leaves can be consumed as a vegetable or used in salads, and the plant's roots can be used to make a bitter tea. Invasive Status: In some regions, such as North America, Aegopodium podagraria has become invasive due to its ability to spread quickly and outcompete native vegetation. It is recommended to not plant this species in areas where it is not native and to control its spread in invasive populations. Conclusion: Bishop's goutweed is a fascinating and versatile plant that has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. However, it is important to be aware of its invasive status and to manage its growth in non-native populations to prevent it from disrupting native ecosystems.