Hoary Balsamroot
Balsamorhiza incana
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Pl. 021B — Balsamorhiza incana
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IOverview
Overview
Hoary Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza incana) is a perennial forb or herb found in the wilds of California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in full sun with dry to moist conditions and prefers light (sandy) or medium soil types. Standing at about 0.9 meters tall, it is known for its edible roots, which can be harvested for culinary use. One distinctive feature of this plant is its hoary appearance, characterized by the fine white hairs covering its stems and leaves, giving them a silvery sheen.
Quick answers
What is Hoary Balsamroot?
Hoary Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza incana) is a perennial forb or herb found in the wilds of California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in full sun with dry to moist conditions and prefers light (sandy) or medium soil types.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Hoary Balsamroot thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It can tolerate both dry and moist conditions but generally needs less water once established. This perennial grows up to 0.9 meters tall and is hardy in zones 4-8, making it suitable for temperate regions. Propagate through seed sowing or division of the rootstock. Harvest its edible roots after the plant has flowered.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.9 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Hoary Balsamroot for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Hoary Balsamroot in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant seeds in early spring or fall when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that's light (sandy) to medium. Amend the soil if necessary to improve drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 inches deep, spacing them about 1 foot apart. Transplant young plants in early spring.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly but regularly during the first two weeks to help establish roots.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and avoid overwatering, especially once established. Mulch around the plant to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves in late winter to encourage new growth and maintain a neat appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough sunlight, and transplanting at the wrong time.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The roots of Hoary Balsamroot are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often dug up in the spring when they are young and tender, then boiled or roasted to enhance their flavor. Skip
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 6 native
Broader regions
native:California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 021be9c8-034d-4a4b-8c5c-edc69025a439
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