False Solomon's Seal

Description:

Reportedly, the young shoots, while still tender and stripped of their leaves, can be simmered in water and eaten - like asparagus. Caution should be used, however, because there is a similar toxic plant that may resemble it as they are both emerging in the spring. I have red conflicting information as to the toxicity of the berries, which (reportedly) taste rather astringent.

Habitat:

USA: AK , AL , AR , CT , DC , DE , FL , GA , IA , IL , IN , KS , KY , LA , MA , MD , ME , MI , MN , MO , MS , NC , ND , NE , NH , NJ , NM , NY , OH , OK , PA , RI , SC , SD , TN , VA , VT , WI , WV Canada: BC , MB , NB , NS , ON , PE , QC Native Distribution: N.S. to AK, s. in the east to GA & TX, in the west through mts. to AZ & s. CA Native Habitat: Woods; clearings; bluffs

Notes:

Spotted on a steep road bank near Holly Creek in the Cohutta Wilderness Area