Habitat and Range
Yampa grows mainly in dry and open meadows but can be found in nearly any environment throughout the Sierra up to 11,000 ft. They often grow in great abundance and would be considered a staple for survival fare.
Physical Description
Yampah is a slender herb that usually grows to about 2 ft tall. The plant has inconspicuous leaves that are most often linear and divided into three or five leaflets. However, some Perideridia spp have only a single linear leaf that appears grass-like. The white compound umbel inflorescence is the most noteable feature of the genus. The sepals on each flower usually evident, but otherwise this plant is difficult to identify to species without a magnifying glass. Be careful not to confuse this genus with other poisonous members of the Carrot Family such as Poison or Water Hemlock (Conium and Cicuta spp)! The root is a distinguishing characteristic of this genus. Like the picture above, the it is a tuberous pencil- to egg-shaped root that often has short hairs. The seeds are oblong and less than 5mm in length.
CAUTION: Be sure not to confuse this genus with other members of the Carrot Family that are poisonous, like Poison Hemlock (Conium spp) and Water Hemlock (Cicuta spp).
Food Uses
The tuberous roots are completely edible once peeled and cleaned. The taste is similar to a carrot but can sometimes be more like a nut. Once you experience the abundance and relative ease of harvesting this plant, you will probably also begin to appreciate nature's bounty as I have. The boiled seeds are also edible.
Medicinal Uses
Historically, Native Americans found medicinal uses in this plant by making root decoctions that have expectorant, laxative and diuretic qualities.
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