Yerba Mansa
Anemopsis californica
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Pl. CE7E — Anemopsis californica
Anemopsis californicaAnemopsis californicaAnemopsis californicaAnemopsis californicaAnemopsis californicaAnemopsis californicaAnemopsis californicaAnemopsis californicaAnemopsis californicaAnemopsis californicaAnemopsis californicaAnemopsis californicaAnemopsis californicaAnemopsis californica
IOverview
Overview
Yerba Mansa (Anemopsis californica) is a perennial herb native to the western United States and northern Mexico. Found in wet habitats such as along streams and in marshes, it thrives in light to partial shade with soil that ranges from sandy to clay. Known for its edible root, Yerba Mansa has been used by indigenous peoples for centuries. This plant grows up to 0.5 meters tall and prefers a pH range of 6.5 to 9. Its distinctive feature is the light green, narrow leaves and small white flowers that appear in spring, making it an ornamental addition to wetland gardens or naturalized areas.
Quick answers
What is Yerba Mansa?
Yerba Mansa (Anemopsis californica) is a perennial herb native to the western United States and northern Mexico. Found in wet habitats such as along streams and in marshes, it thrives in light to partial shade with soil that ranges from sandy to clay.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Yerba Mansa thrives in full to partial sun and requires wet conditions, making it suitable for bog gardens or areas with consistent moisture. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils and can grow up to 0.5 meters tall. Hardy in zones 7-10, this perennial is adaptable but performs best in a soil pH range of 6.5–9. For propagation, division or seed sowing are effective methods. Edible parts include the root, which can be harvested after the plant has established itself.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Wet, Water
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.5 m tall
Soil pH
6.5–9
For first-time growers
How to grow Yerba Mansa for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Yerba Mansa in a sunny spot and well-prepared soil for a successful beginner experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Yerba Mansa plants or seeds, potting mix, container if needed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.5–9; ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from nurseries or sow seeds directly in the ground; space them about 30 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid direct sunlight for a week.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Fertilize sparingly with compost.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves in late winter to maintain plant health; harvest roots for culinary use after 2 years.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Yerba Mansa is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It is typically harvested and either cooked or dried before use. The roots are often boiled to soften them for consumption. Skip the raw form as it may be tough and less palatable.
Other uses:Crafting
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
14 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
14 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 14 native
Broader regions
native:Arizona, California, Colorado, Kansas, Mexico Central, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southwest, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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