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Seeds - Indian Cucumber-root
Seeds - Indian Cucumber-root
Seeds - Indian Cucumber-root
Seeds - Indian Cucumber-root
Seeds - Indian Cucumber-root
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Seeds - Indian Cucumber-root

Medeola virginiana

$6.00
( / )
Format

Origine : Non spécifiée


Catégories: comestible, indigène, médicinale, nouveauté, vivace,

Aire de répartition indigène: ON, QC, NB, NS,

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For successful seedlings,
see the growing notes at the bottom of the page!

Indian cucumber-root (Medeola virginiana), also known as Virginia cucumber-root, is a native perennial plant found in the hardwood forests of eastern North America. Typically reaching between 30 and 90 cm in height, it has a distinctive structure with two tiers of leaves. The first set of dark green leaves forms a whorl around the stem, while a second, smaller set appears near the top later in the season. In late spring or early summer, it produces small, pendulous, yellow-green flowers that transform into black berries in the fall. Adapted to the forest understory, Indian cucumber-root prefers moist, acidic soils rich in organic matter.

Medicinal and Culinary Uses
Indian cucumber-root has edible roots with a mild, cucumber-like flavour, giving it its common name. The root is also diuretic and hydrogogue However, this plant is now less commonly used due to its rarity in certain regions. The berries, however, are toxic to humans.

Ecological Roles
Indian cucumber-root plays a modest but important role in forest ecosystems by providing a food source for some animals in the fall with its berries. While toxic to humans, these berries attract small mammals and birds, helping disperse the seeds. Its presence in the forest understory contributes to the diversity of plant layers and enriches local biodiversity.

 

Indian cucumber-root seeds require cold stratification to ensure germination. See the cultivation notes below for more details.

Akène cannot assume any responsibility for the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always seek advice from a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.

Growing Notes | Seeds - Indian Cucumber-root

To successfully germinate Indian cucumber-root (Medeola virginiana), it is essential to follow its specific requirements.

STRATIFICATION
The seeds have a double dormancy, requiring two periods of cold stratification. In nature, the seeds typically germinate only after experiencing two winters outdoors. However, unlike most seeds with this characteristic, M. virginiana seeds do not form roots during the first cold period and cotyledons during the second; instead, both roots and cotyledons emerge simultaneously in the second spring.

Sowing can be done in the fall, directly outdoors, to allow for natural stratification through freeze-thaw cycles. However, seedlings will not emerge until the second spring.

If you prefer spring sowing, you can speed up the process by performing two cold stratification periods, separated by 20 to 30 days at room temperature.

At Akène, our Medeola virginiana seeds have already undergone their first cold stratification, then the warm rest periode starting mid-january, and should be stored at room temperature away from light in their original packaging until mid-february. You can then place them in the refrigerator for a second 60 to 90-day cold period. If you order the seeds later in 2025, the simply complete this schedule.

After this process, sow the seeds at a depth of 5mm in a rich, well-draining substrate, ideally composed of compost or forest soil. Space the seeds to promote good air circulation and prevent competition between plants.

During germination, keep the substrate consistently moist, but avoid overwatering or waterlogging. If starting seeds outdoors, whether in the fall or spring, a light mulch of leaves or organic matter helps retain moisture and protects seedlings from temperature fluctuations. Be patient, as this plant can take several weeks, or even months, to germinate.

Once the seedlings are established, ensure their natural habitat is preserved by providing a shaded or semi-shaded environment, similar to their native forest habitat. By following these detailed steps and exercising patience, you can maximize your chances of propagating this delicate yet fascinating plant.

Seeds per packet: 15

Family: Liliaceae

Scientific name: Medeola virginiana

Life cycle: Perennial

Hardiness zone: 3

Soil type: Sandy to silty

Soil moisture level: Medium to soggy

Soil - additional attributes: Rich

Light: Shade, partial shade

Blooming: May to June

Spacing: 30 to 45 cm

Height: 30 to 90 cm

Deer resistance: Unknown

Stratification:

Scarification: No

Germination time: 35 to 60 days

Sowing depth: 5 mm