The May Apple… A Unique Perennial

The May apple is a wildflower perennial that grows in groups, usually in shady areas. It’s considered an herb and part of the Barberry family.

It’s unique because it actually produces a small apple, which unfortunately, is usually eaten by squirrels before you see it.

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In early spring the May apple leaves emerge from rhizomes in the ground. The plant leaves are large almost umbrella-shaped and can grow to about 8” wide. The height of the plant is almost 18” high.

A clump of them make an attractive addition to a shade garden.

Some plants only have a single stem and leaf. But those with two leaves, develop a lovely white flower with a small yellow center just where the leaves meet the stem. The flower eventually grows into a green ovid (egg-shaped) fruit. The May apple blooms in April to May but withers away by mid-summer.

Please note the leaves and stems are considered poisonous. The fruit, once fully ripened can be eaten. However, only the very brave should attempt this! The ripening doesn’t occur until August when the leaves start withering. The May apple, also known as American Mandrake, like many wildflowers is being tested as a possible treatment for cancer, and skin disease.

The plant contains podophyllin. Podophyllin has an antimiotic effect (it interferes with cell division and thus can prevent the growth of cells).

Additionally the resin of May apples which is present in the root is used in the treatment of warts.

May apples were once called “witches umbrella” and so the tale goes, used by witches as a poison. In England the plant is called Manroot or Mandrake and people believed the plant was alive. It was thought that when pulled from the ground its screams could make a man permanently insane.

The plant is easy to grow using seedling transplants or from seeds that can be planted in the fall. As noted May apples prefer rich, well-drained soil and love deep shade.

I first discovered May apples at a garden club May Market a few years ago and liked how attractive they were in shady spots. They do spread and with the right conditions will flourish in your woodland garden.

REMINDER: The Garden Club of Orange’s May Market will take place May 7th on the Town Green from 8:30 am to 12 Noon. There will be many plants to choose from – maybe even some May apples. Don’t miss the opportunity to purchase some home-baked goods, and garden club aprons as well. Profits from the May Market are used for the beautification of Orange.