The tubers of some types of arrowhead are quite edible. They can be collected in autumn, when the leaves are slowly drying up, or in early spring, before the plant sprout again. According to various sources, the tubers taste similar to potatoes.

The tubers of some arrowhead species are edible

Is arrowhead a crop?

In some Asian countries, arrowhead is even specially cultivated as a useful and edible plant. This is mostly the species Sagittaria sagittifolia, but the species Sagittaria cuneata and Sagittaria graminea are also known as useful plants. After the tubers have been prepared, the peel should be removed because it contains a lot of bitter substances.

The tubers of the arrowhead can also be dried very well and then ground into flour. This is suitable for baking or for cooking porridge. It is often mixed with grain flour for this purpose. If you can't find the right types of arrowhead, or if you want to try the bulbs before you grow them in your own garden, the best place to find them is in an Asian store.

Where does arrowhead grow?

The arrowhead is just like the related frog spoon a swamp and aquatic plant. Some species are native to tropical areas. They are suitable for planting in aquariums. Other species are found in temperate climates such as Central Europe. You can use these as an excellent bank planting for your garden pond. This includes, for example, the common arrowhead.

Depending on the species, the arrowhead grows fully or partially under water. The air leaves (growing above the water) are arrow-shaped, while the water leaves (growing below the water) are ribbon-shaped. In addition, the arrowhead still has egg-shaped floating leaves. The above-ground parts of the plant are drawn in for the winter, so the plant hibernates at the bottom of the water body. Propagation is by sowing or planting the tubers.

Consumption tips for arrowhead:

  • not every species is edible
  • the peel contains bitter substances and should not be eaten
  • the tubers of some species are edible
  • Tubers are very starchy
  • Taste similar to potatoes
  • Boil or roast the tubers and then peel them
  • dried tubers suitable for grinding
  • Flour can be used for baking or for porridge

tips

You can get the edible bulbs of some arrowhead species in some Asian shops. So you can try before you start growing whether you like this specialty.

Category:

Vegetable garden