Ground-Elder

Aegopodium is a genus from the Carrot family (Apiaceae) with five species, growing in Europe and Asia.

Ground Elder (Aegopodium podagraria) is a common weed that grows in shady places. It is also known as Goutweed, Herb Gerard, Bishop's Weed or Snow-in-the-mountain.

The tender leaves were used as a spring vegetable much like spinach. It was also used to treat gout and arthritis. It is said to have been introduced into England by the Romans and into northern Europe by monks.

In some areas this plant is considered the worst of weeds, but a variegated form is grown as an ornamental (though with the advice to keep it isolated).

Other species :

• Aegopodium alpestre, Aegopodium kashmiricum