The Ground-elder (Aegopodium podagraria) is a common weed in the carrot family (Apiaceae) that grows in shady places. It is sometimes also cited as "ground elder", though this format invites confusion by suggesting it is a species of elder (Sambucus), an unrelated genus. It is also known as Goutweed, Herb gerard, Bishop's weed and Snow-in-the-mountain.

The tender leaves have been used as a spring leaf vegetable much like spinach. It has also been used to treat gout and arthritis. The plant is said to have been introduced into England by the Romans and into northern Europe by monks.

In some areas this plant is considered among the worst of weeds, readily spreading over large areas of ground by underground roots. A variegated form is grown as an ornamental plant, though with the advice to keep it isolated.

Ground-elder is used as a food plant by the larvae of some species of Lepidoptera including Dot Moth, Grey Dagger and Grey Pug.

The genus Aegopodium contains four other species, all native to Europe and Asia, including Aegopodium alpestre and Aegopodium kashmiricum.

Photos

External links

Herbal information

• Goutweed (Aegopodium podagraria) Mrs. Grieve's "A Modern Herbal" @ Botanical.com

General information and control measures

• Plant Conservation Alliance, Alien Plant Working Group: Goutweed (US Specific)

Apiaceae | Leaf vegetables

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