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In Chippwea, agwin’gusibug, meaning ground squirrel leaf, rose twisted-stalk (Streptopus lanceolatus formerly S. roseus) is common around Haliburton county, Ontario. It prefers moist woods and partly shaded grassy banks. I tend to find it hiding in shady forest edges. It’s easy to miss the flowers, which hang underneath the leaves. But when you look close, its flowers are some of the prettiest in the woods! The ones I’ve found have been a deep pink, but they come in a pale colouring too.
With a look similar to the true Solomon’s seal and Solomon’s plume, it’s pretty easy to misidentify! It could also be confused for some orchids. And the young plants took like poisonous false hellebore. Yet another example toward being careful about identification.
Twisted-stalk is named for the way the stalk zigzags. It also has alternate leaves.
Edible Uses of Rose Twisted-stalk
The young stalks and leaves and bright red ripe berries have been eaten raw or cooked. But the opinion is divided on this plant. Some say poisonous and others say just don’t eat too many of the bland berries or you’ll end up with diarrhea. The later which may be why one of the folk names is scootberry.
This species is not in Sam Thayer’s newest foraging guidebook, which says a lot to me.
Medicinal Uses of Rose Twisted-stalk
Rose twisted-stalk is primarily said to support these body systems:
- Digestive
- Integumentary
- Respiratory
Medicinal tags include Diaphoretic and Purgative. See Medicinal tag key for more information.
Common usage includes the root steeped for an eye stye poultice. There is very little information on this plant in my massive herbal library.
Growing Streptopus Lanceolatus
This would be a unique plant to include in your native landscaping. Even though the flowers require some crouching to enjoy, the leaf pattern and golden autumn colour of the leaves adds interest. It goes well in a shaded bed or woods edge. It could be planted near its relation largeflower bellwort and other spring ephemerals, which all bloom before it.
This plant will take extra care to grow from seed and appears to be a few year commitment before transplanting. You may be able to buy the seeds and you will need to carefully follow the instructions that come with them.
WARNINGS
And the Usual Cautions:
1) Most medicinal herbs, if edible, are meant to be eaten in moderation, even sparingly. Some require extra preparation. Tannins are toxic if consumed in excess.
2) People can be allergic or sensitive to nearly any plant; try new herbs one at a time at your own risk. For instance, saponins commonly cause stomach upset.
3) For medicinal use, I must recommend receiving a diagnosis and working with a reputed health care provider. I generally do not post specific treatments and dosages because I think that is best between you and your health care provider, and ideally monitored.
4) Anyone pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription drugs should talk to a health care professional before adding new food items to their diet.
5) Many plants have look-a-likes, and sometimes they are poisonous.
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REFERENCES
https://data.canadensys.net/vascan/name/Streptopus%20lanceolatus
Edible and Medicinal Plants of Canada
How Indians Use Wild Plants for Food, Medicine & Crafts (Native American)