Mayapple emerging (Click image to enlarge) 
Mayapple blossom (Click image to enlarge) 
Mayapple blossom(Click image to enlarge) 
Mayapple foliage(Click image to enlarge) 
Mayapple fruit (Click image to enlarge) |
Mayapple Podophyllum peltatum Mayapple is a spring wildflower found in woods. It emerges from the ground like a tightly-rolled green cigar, then unfurls one or two leaves. First year plants bear only one leaf, those that are older bear two. Plants with two leaves have a single white flower with six petals, attached to the plant near the junction of the two leaf stems. With time a small (one or two inch diameter) green "apple" appears. The plants often grow in large spreading colonies, and can sometimes cover large areas of the forest floor. Most parts of the plant are toxic; even handling the foliage can induce an allergic reaction in some people. Though I've never eaten one, the fruits are said to be edible, if overly sweet. Box turtles relish the fruits and help spread Mayapple seeds in their droppings. Mayapple has pharmaceutical importance because it is a source of podophyllum, which has seen use in treatment of skin cancers and warts. Member of the Barberry family. Other names include Mandrake and Hog Apple. |
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