Balsamorhiza incana aka Hoary Balsamroot

Balsamorhiza incana, or hoary balsamroot, belongs to the Asteraceae family. This perennial comes from the western United States. Its range includes Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. It grows in meadows and other open sites. These habitats range from fairly dry to fairly moist. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. In gardens, it reaches about 3 feet (0.9 metres) tall.

The plant has a thick root and flowers in July. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects pollinate the flowers. The supplied sources give no details of flower colour or shape. They also give no clear account of leaves or fruit. The root matters when choosing where to plant it. This species reacts poorly when gardeners disturb its roots. Set young plants in their lasting place while still small.

Choose full sun and deep, fertile loam that drains well. The plant does not grow in shade. It can also grow in sandy soil. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline conditions. Soil may be dry or moist, but winter wet causes problems. PFAF lists USDA zones 4–8 and cold tolerance to at least −25°C. A sunny cultivated bed can meet its needs. Good drainage matters as much as a site with enough light.

Seed offers one way to raise new plants. Sow in a greenhouse in early spring with a thin covering. PFAF reports sprouting within two to six days at 18°C. Use separate pots, or pot seedlings once large enough to handle. Move young plants to their final sites in summer. Spring division is possible, but root disturbance makes it difficult. Small divisions or basal cuttings may avoid disturbing the main clump. Keep these in light greenhouse shade until growth resumes.

The roots and seeds have recorded food uses. People eat the roots raw or cooked. Seeds can also be eaten raw or cooked. Ground seeds can go into bread. Traditional remedies used leaves, roots, and stems for stomach pain and colds. Steam baths were used for headaches. These records describe past use, not proof of medical benefit. PFAF lists no known hazards and no weed potential. It supplies no specific pest or disease details.