Milkmaid

Milk Maids

Dentaria californica

(dentaria, toothed or horned, for the oddly shaped, tuberous rootstocks; californica, of California.).
This is one of California's most widespread and characteristic spring wildflowers. Often starting to bloom in winter, its pretty white or faintly pink flowers may continue through April. The swollen rootstocks used to be eaten raw as a peppery relish. Stem to 20 in. tall; leaves somewhat fleshy, hairless, entire or with 3-5 leaflets. Shady woods (var. californica) or open meadows (var. integrifolia).

Redw.-Doug. Fir For., Bd. Ev. For., Oak Wood., Grass.

Jan.-Apr.


Source: Spring Wildflowers of the San Francisco Bay Region;
photo from Wild Flowers of Marin.

-- Michael Paul Thoma

I'd value your comments. Email me at mike@thoma.com

Last updated 30 Dec 1995.