SafePlants

American Scurfpea

This page provides information about the American Scurfpea, its characteristics, distribution, and uses.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that Silver-leaf Scurfpea is poisonous but seldom consumed.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions that Silver-leaf Scurfpea is poisonous but seldom consumed.
• Some varieties are referred to as "Indian Breadroot" and were historically used as food by Native Americans.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Cullen americanum (L.) Rydb.
• Common Names: American Scurfpea, Lemon Scurfpea, Silverleaf Scurfpea, Indian Breadroot, Prairie Turnip, Prairie Potato, Wild Alfalfa, Wedgeleaf Scurfpea, Scurfy Pea, Slimflower Scurfpea.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Fabaceae (Legume Family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Synonyms:
  • Psoralidium lanceolatum
  • Psoralea americana
  • Cullen americana (L) Rydb (orth. var.)
  • Psoralea esculenta
  • Psoralea physodes Douglas ex Hook.
  • Psoralea rigida Parish.

Distribution and Habitat

• Eastern North America, from Iowa to North Dakota, Saskatchewan, Kansas, Arizona, and British Columbia.
• Dry prairies and hills.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Duration: Perennial
• Growth Habit: Forb/herb, Subshrub
• Leaves are noted to have a lemony aroma and oily feel.
• The Small Scurf-pea is described as a squat perennial herb with stems that trail along the ground, reaching up to 50 cm long.

Ecological Role

• The American Scurfpea can fix nitrogen from the atmosphere, contributing to soil fertility.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Mentioned as being a prevalent forb in American prairies.

Traditional Uses

• Native Americans used the plant to treat fevers and consumed the roots.
• The roots were a significant food source for Native Americans, consumed fresh, dried for winter, or ground into flour (hence "Indian Breadroot").
• The Arapaho used a snuff of leaves and sneezeweed blossoms inhaled for headaches.
• Tea made from stems and leaves was used for fever.

Quirky Facts

• The plant's lemony aroma and oily feel inspired some to try using it.
• Lemon Scurf Pea appears to be overlooked in modern herbal usage.

Further Information

• Fabaceae of North America Update, database (version 2011)
• Lewis and Clark Herbarium/Academy of Natural Sciences
• North American Flora 24(2):1-64
• Contributions from the U.S. National Herbarium 19: 1-794