Valerianaceae

Valerianella locusta

European Corn-Salad

Erect stem, repeating equally forked branches. Stem with sparse hairs pointing downward. Leaves opposite; lower leaves on short petioles; upper leaves sessile; blades oval to oblong, entire or slightly toothed near tip. Inflorescence at stem top, usually 2 dense clusters with ring of bracts at base, flowers on short stalks. Flower without calyx, a white funnel-shaped tube with 5 bluish or pink, unequal, rounded lobes. Grows in moist shaded places. Escapee from cultivation, grown for edible leaves.

• Rarity: Locally Common
• Flowering Time: All Spring
• Life Cycle: Annual
• Height: 4--15 inches
• Habitat: Vernal Wet, Disturbed
• Found In: Siskiyous, Olympic Np
• Native: No