silverweed

Potentilla anserina

characteristics

Named for the silver-grey underside of the finely serrated leaves which are covered by fine hairs and silky to the touch. Spreads readily by red stolons (up to 80 cm long) from the parent plant; in exposed areas before you know it you have a lush, resilient, green carpet, dotted with yellow flowers. Foliage looks like wild strawberry, although silverweed grows much larger.

Starts from seed, cuttings. Often just a bit of root will start a new plant.

habitat

Meadows, forest margins and paths, disturbed sites.

uses

Seed source for a variety of birds including finches. Nectar source for many insects including hoverflies.
Boiled roots are edible and helped sustain many North American aboriginals during winter famine.