Adderstongue
Erythronium multiscapideumfam. Liliaceae
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Pl. AE87 — Erythronium multiscapideum
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IOverview
Overview
Adderstongue (Erythronium multiscapideum) is a native California plant belonging to the family Liliaceae. This herbaceous perennial thrives in partial sun and shade, requiring moist conditions and well-draining soil that can be light or medium in texture. Standing at about 0.3 meters tall, it is known for its edible root, which can be harvested for culinary use. The plant is notable for its distinctive, narrow leaves that resemble a tongue, hence the common name. Its beauty makes it an attractive addition to shady gardens and natural landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Adderstongue?
Adderstongue (Erythronium multiscapideum) is a native California plant belonging to the family Liliaceae. This herbaceous perennial thrives in partial sun and shade, requiring moist conditions and well-draining soil that can be light or medium in texture.
What is Adderstongue used for?
Traditionally used for digestion, immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Adderstongue
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Erythronium species have been traditionally used in Native American medicine for digestive issues, often prepared as a decoction from the root. This preparation is thought to support gastrointestinal health.
The mechanism by which Erythronium supports digestion is not fully characterised but may involve compounds that interact with gut motility and inflammation pathways.
- Erythronium species have been traditionally used in Native American medicine to support immune function, often prepared as a decoction from the root. This preparation is thought to help maintain overall health.
The mechanism by which Erythronium supports immune function is not fully characterised but may involve compounds that interact with immune pathways and inflammation.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Adderstongue support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Adderstongue thrives in partial sun to shade and requires moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It grows to a height of about 0.3 meters and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, gardeners can divide the bulbs in spring or fall. The edible parts are the roots, which can be harvested carefully after the plant has bloomed.
Light
Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Adderstongue for the first time
8steps
Start with Adderstongue for a simple, low-maintenance project.
- 1
What you'll need
Adderstongue bulbs and a small trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is cool.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining, light soil. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant bulbs 5-7 cm deep with the pointy end up in a shady spot.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid rotting the bulbs. Keep soil moist but not soggy.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade and keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
No need for harvesting; focus on maintaining healthy foliage until it yellows naturally.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, using heavy clay soil.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Adderstongue (Erythronium multiscapideum) is edible and can be harvested for consumption. Typically, it is prepared by digging up the plant and removing the fleshy roots, which are then cleaned and eaten raw or cooked. Skip the step involving steeping in water as it's not a common preparation method for this part of the plant.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 1 native
Broader regions
native:California
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Liliaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Liliaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
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