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Balsamroot

Balsamorhiza sagittata

APPEARANCE

Balsamroot is a relative of the sunflower. Its leaves are coarse and arrow-shaped, and a single plant can have many yellow flowers. It grows in clumps to a height of about 75cm (2.5 feet).

RANGE & HABITAT

Balsamroot grows from B.C. and Alberta to California in plains and valleys and to elevations of 2,700 metres.

LIFE CYCLE

It may take five to ten years to establish but when it does, it grows well with other kinds of plants. It is strongly drought-resistant, has good winter-hardiness, tolerates semi-shade, and is tolerant of grazing and trampling. Balsamroot may be ‘top-killed’ by fire, but its strong and persistent root allows it to regenerate following most fires.

ANIMAL USES

Balsamroot is food for a variety of livestock, like sheep, cattle, horses and wildlife like mice and deer. It also acts as a cover for small mammals and birds, especially grouse.

TRADITIONAL USES BY INDIGENOUS PEOPLES

This plant has long been used for numerous purposes because most of the plant is edible and high in fibre and energy content. The leaves are eaten, raw or cooked, and the seeds are roasted and eaten or ground into flour. The roots contain an immune-stimulating substance and a sap can be used for disinfectant. The roots are often burned, using the smoke to cure headaches or fumigate rooms. When roasted or steamed, the root becomes edible and can be ground into meal.

OTHER USES

It is important for the grazing of domestic livestock. It is also used to plant on damaged or disturbed hills and creek banks.

STATUS

COSEWIC: Not at Risk
CDC: Yellow

MORE INFORMATION

www.bcadventure.com

Photo: Vicky Husband