Dwarf Ginseng

Panax trifolius, commonly called dwarf ginseng, is a plant native to the Northeastern and Appalachian regions of North America. It is found in low mesic woods with acidic soils.

It produces an umbel of white flowers in late spring. This species was used for traditional medicine by Native Americans. Its tubers can be eaten raw or boiled.

The distribution of the plant is inconsistent and can become disjunct as it appears frequently in one area and absent in another with a suitable habitat. The plant is a part of the Araliaceae and occurs in a similar region with the more notable relative, Panax quinquefolium. It is sometimes referred to as "groundnut" due to the roots exhibiting a nutty flavor when eaten raw.