False Unicorn
Chamaelirium luteum
PLANT NAME
False Unicorn
COMMON NAMES
Fairy Wand, Starwort, Helonias, Blazing Star, Devil's Bit.
BOTANICAL NAME
Chamaelirium luteum
IDENTIFICATION
A dioecious perennial herb. It forms a basal rosette of leaves and a tall spike covered in small, white, feathery flowers. Male and female flowers grow on separate plants. The root is tuberous and bulbous.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Rhizome and roots.
CULINARY USES
Not traditionally used for food.
TRADITIONAL USES
A major Native American and Eclectic remedy for women's reproductive health. Used as a uterine tonic, to prevent miscarriage, and to relieve menstrual and menopausal symptoms. Also used as a diuretic and for digestive complaints.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Native to moist meadows and woodlands of eastern North America. At-risk in the wild due to overharvesting and habitat loss. Roots are traditionally harvested in autumn.
SAFETY / CAUTION
May cause nausea or vomiting in large doses. Due to its impact on the uterus, it should be used in pregnancy only under professional guidance. Often confused with True Unicorn (Aletris farinosa). Always consult your doctor before using this or any herbal remedy.
RELATED PLANTS
Often paired or confused with True Unicorn (Aletris farinosa).