Achlys triphylla
Berberidaceae
Vanilla Leaf
Spreading by underground roots, 3 fan-shaped, coarsely toothed leaflets at top of 4–15 in. stems. Central leaflet divided into 3 lobes. Leaves horizontal. Stem single, longer than leaf, holds spike of small white flowers with long stamens giving a starry look. Berries reddish purple. Similar A. californica, deer foot, has 6–8 lobes on central leaflet, and brown berries. Called vanilla leaf for the sweet smell of the dried leaves.
- Rarity: Common
- Flowering Time: Early Spring, Mid Spring, Late Spring, Early Summer, Mid Summer
- Flower Form: 5-16 petals, many stamens
- Life Cycle: Perennial
- Height: 8–16 inches
- Habitat: Coastal, West-side Forest
- Found In: Crater Lake NP, Mt. Rainier NP, N Cascades NP, Olympic NP, Siskiyous, West Gorge
- Native: Yes
- Also Known As: Deer Foot, Sweet After Death
