Podophyllum peltatum
(American Mayapple, Duck's Foot, Hog Apple, Indian Apple, Mandrake Root)

Comments:  Podophyllum peltatum or American Mayapple or Duck's Foot or Hog Apple or Indian Apple or Mandrake Root is a herbaceous perennial with a fast, rhizomatous growth habit.   It is a native of United States.  Podophyllum peltatum is a single stem plant with 2 leaves on each stem.  In mid-Spring, Mandrake Root produces white fluffy blossom which appears between 2 leaf nodes.  This is followed by green fruits in early Summer  which turns yellow when ripe in late Summer.  Ripe Mayapple fruits taste lemony and can be consumed in moderation; they are said to have laxative properties.  Duck's Foot is easily propagated from rhizome divisions or seeds sown directly in Fall.  Hog Apple performs best in well-drained, rich, moist acidic to neutral soil in a shady location.  Mass plant Indian Apple as groundcovers under trees or shrubs for an awesome display.   Podophyllum peltatum spreads by means of rhizomatous roots and soon forms a nice, dense colony.  lts large canopy of lovely green foliage looks splendid in the woodland setting.  Mandrake Root is low maintenance and naturalizes easily in the shade garden.  It goes dormant in the heat of Summer.  The thick rhizomatous roots of  American Mayapple are known to have anti-cancer properties.  Native Americans have been using Indian Apple roots for many years for the treatment of various ailments.   Duck's Foot had also been used as topical treatment for genital warts.

Image of butterfly, bees and bird attractor, Podophyllum peltatum or American Mayapple or Duck's Foot, Hog Apple, Indian Apple, Mandrake Root coming soon...