Veratrum viride

Veratrum viride, also known as the American hellebore or Indian poke, is a species of perennial plant in the family Melanthiaceae. It is native to North America and is found in wet meadows, swampy areas, and along stream banks.

Description

Veratrum viride grows to a height of 0.7 to 2 meters. It has a stout, unbranched stem with large, alternate, pleated leaves. The flowers are green, with 6 tepals and are arranged in large terminal clusters. The fruit is a capsule containing numerous flat, winged seeds.

Distribution and habitat

Veratrum viride is native to eastern and western North America. In the east, it ranges from Georgia to Newfoundland and Labrador. In the west, it ranges from Alaska to California, with a disjunct population in New Mexico. It is typically found in wet meadows, swampy areas, and along stream banks.

Uses

Veratrum viride has been used in traditional medicine by Native Americans and early settlers. It has been used to treat high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and other heart conditions. However, it is highly toxic and can cause severe side effects, including death, if ingested.

Toxicity

All parts of the plant are highly toxic. The toxins include several types of alkaloids, including veratridine and cevadine. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, and a slow and irregular heartbeat. In severe cases, it can cause death.

Conservation status

Veratrum viride is not currently listed as threatened or endangered. However, its habitat is being lost due to development and changes in land use.

See also

• List of poisonous plants
• Medicinal plants

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