As the name implies, the root, really a tuber, is edible and tastes like a cucumber…although I personally have not yanked one out of the ground to munch upon it. I am relying on the report in good faith. The plant grows to between 12-36 inches and flowers in late spring and early summer. The fruits are berries which are dark red to purple and I have seen nothing to indicate they are edible. The plant is considered as becoming rare so pulling the roots is not encouraged. Whether they are edible or not, the berries produce new plants so leaving them for the future is a good idea.
Indian Cucumber Root-Medeola virginiana is a member of the Lily family and the only species in it genus.
I’ve never photographed the berries but will try to remember to do so later in the summer. The plant is taller than shown here but I concentrated on the flower.
Stephen Gingold Nature Photography Blog 
Very unusual … great portrait!
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Thank you! I’ve tried photographing this flower a few times without much success. I think this finally works well.
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I’ve learned that there’s a technical term for a genus with only one species in it: monotypic.
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It didn’t occur to me to use the term, senior moment, but I have known that word. Well, monotype but the same.
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A great discovery, Steve! I wonder if this plant grows here in BC. I am also curious about any health benefits of eating the tubers.
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I didn’t read of any health benefits so am not sure. Did you find out if you have them locally? This wasn’t my first time photographing it but it was my first time successfully doing so. Thanks, Peter!
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Beautifully photographed! It looks very delicate and pretty.
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It is, Ann. And very sensitive to air movement, much like a columbine. Tested my patience. Thanks!
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Ah, I know what fluttery flowers are like! Strange how they seem to sit perfectly still until you’re about to photograph them!
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I’ve found that until I look through the viewfinder or on the LCD I am unaware of the slight movement of a gentle breeze. KInd of like while driving in the car. Our motion makes the motion of other things less noticeable. But oft times things do sit still until just as we press the shutter release. 😦
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What a very interesting and exotic-looking plant! I don’t think I’ve ever been as impressed by a cucumber.
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Generally cucumbers and beauty are not mentioned it the same sentence so your surprise is not surprising. Well, I am a bit off as I have heard that there are cucumber treatments for skin but that’s another thing.
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Yeah, and now that I think about it, I’ve seen pictures of people with slices of cucumber on their eyes. I usually try to keep salad and other food off my face!
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I do too. Especially creme pies.
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😄
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What an intriguing plant! Thank you for getting that flower so close and clear, and sharing it with us.
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Thank you, GretchenJoanna! It was worth the effort.
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That’s a gorgeous portrait of a fascinating plant, Steve, kudos to you.
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Thanks, Lynn. It was a challenging capture as, lying on my side, I did invite ticks to a luncheon but none took advantage of the opportunity. :-0
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Aieeee….
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