Plants - Pacific Northwest

Sedum Lanceolatum - Lance-Leaved Stonecrop

Note: These plants can be dangerous if improperly used. The author, and/or ernestartist.org assume no liability for experimentation of use.

Plate 124 Plate 125

Ernestartist.org assumes no liability for experimental use of medicinal plants, food plants or herbal remedies.

Sedum Lanceolatum: Lance-leaved Stonecrop.

Sedum comes from the Latin word sedeo, which means 'to sit' in reference to the plant's low, squashed stature.

The leaves of all stonecrops are edible, but should be eaten in moderation because some varieties have emetic and cathartic properties and can cause headaches. Some Lanceolatum have darker red leaves than others... this is because plants exposed to direct sunlight enhance this color. The leaves of most high-altitude species stay green and juicy throughout winter and make great survival food. Look for dried flower stalks rising above the snow. The dried flowers are distinctively star shaped.

Juicy and slightly astringent, the plant is useful as soothing, topical remedy for minor burns, insect bites, and other skin irritations. Squeeze the juice onto the area, somewhat like an Aloe application, letting the juice dry and congeal. American Indians used a decoction of the root for sore throat, (gargle) and (compress) for eye irritations.