Yellow water lily

Nuphar lutea

root

Thick rhizomes of a water-lily with golden-yellow flowers, floating on ponds and slow waters; eaten since prehistoric times, and still in Finland during famines.

Origin

Europe (Finland)

Where to find it

Today it is admired rather than eaten: it is protected in several regions of France.

Season (United States)

all year round

Preparation

Famine food, not a vegetable: its rhizomes contain alkaloids, nupharines.

Molecules

In small amounts, not counted Insoluble fibers

Did you know?

Its yellow flowers smell of alcohol, hence its English name brandy-bottle.