What Is Dollarweed (Pennywort)?
Often found growing in damp, moist conditions, dollarweed is a perennial plant with several species under the genus Hydrocotyle. Its distinctive round, glossy green leaves, which resemble small lily pads or coins, are its most recognizable feature. The plant's stem connects to the center of the leaf, a key identification marker. Despite its reputation as a pesky lawn weed, dollarweed has a history of use in traditional medicine and culinary practices in various cultures.
Is Dollarweed Edible for Humans? The Verdict
Yes, dollarweed is edible for humans, with both its leaves and stems safe for consumption when sourced properly. The taste is often described as mild, slightly peppery, or celery-like, though some find it can be quite bitter, especially the more mature leaves. It is often enjoyed raw in salads or cooked like other leafy greens. However, it is crucial to exercise extreme caution and follow specific safety guidelines before consuming it from the wild.
The Critical Importance of Sourcing
The greatest risk associated with eating dollarweed is not its inherent toxicity but its environment. As a common and resilient lawn weed, it is frequently targeted with chemical herbicides and pesticides. Consuming a plant that has been sprayed with these chemicals could lead to serious health issues. Therefore, only harvest dollarweed from areas you know for certain have not been chemically treated. Avoid foraging from public parks, golf courses, and residential lawns unless you have explicit confirmation that no chemicals have been applied.
How to Identify Dollarweed Correctly
Correct identification is non-negotiable to avoid confusing dollarweed with potentially harmful look-alikes. The central attachment of the stem to the leaf is the most reliable way to distinguish it. The leaves are round with smooth or scalloped edges. The plants can form dense mats, particularly in wet areas. While dollarweed is generally safe, consuming the leaves of Hydrocotyle umbellata in large quantities may cause nausea in some individuals.
Look-Alikes: Avoid These Potentially Harmful Impostors
Several other plants can be mistaken for dollarweed. Proper identification is key to preventing accidental ingestion of a potentially toxic impostor.
| Feature | Dollarweed (Hydrocotyle spp.) | Dichondra (Dichondra micrantha) | Creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leaf Shape | Round, smooth or scalloped edges | Kidney-shaped or round | Heart-shaped or kidney-shaped |
| Stem Attachment | Attaches to the center of the leaf | Attaches to the edge of the leaf | Attaches to the edge of the leaf |
| Leaf Edges | Smooth or scalloped | Smooth | Ragged or serrated |
| Growth Habit | Creeping mat, often in wet areas | Creeping mat, but leaves are smaller | Creeping, forms dense patches |
| Flavor | Mild, peppery, can be bitter | Tasteless or slightly bitter | Pungent, minty |
Nutritional Profile and Health Claims
Despite its simple appearance, dollarweed is a source of several nutrients. It is particularly noted for its content of vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, and vitamin K. It also contains minerals like calcium, magnesium, sodium, manganese, and zinc.
Common Uses and Properties:
- Culinary: Young, tender leaves and stems are added to salads, sandwiches, and smoothies.
- Tea: Can be steeped to make a herbal tea.
- Flavoring: Minced dollarweed can be incorporated into dips or used as a garnish.
- Traditional Medicine: Used in some folk medicine traditions as an anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and memory stimulant. It is related to Gotu kola, a well-known herb in Asian medicine.
Culinary Preparation and Uses
Preparation for consumption is straightforward, with a focus on cleaning. Thoroughly wash the leaves to remove any dirt or residue. For optimal flavor and texture, harvest younger, smaller leaves. Some foragers prefer cooking older leaves to reduce their bitterness.
Recipes and methods include:
- Raw: Add chopped leaves to salads or sandwiches for a fresh, crisp texture.
- Cooked: Sauté with other greens, or add to stir-fries or soups.
- Blended: Include a handful in a smoothie for a nutritional boost.
- Dips: Finely mince the leaves and mix with cream cheese or yogurt for a savory dip.
Potential Risks and Precautions
While dollarweed is a safe edible with proper precautions, it is not without risks, particularly for inexperienced foragers. The risk of ingesting harmful chemicals remains the most significant danger. Additionally, misidentification can lead to consuming a toxic look-alike. Some individuals may also be more sensitive to the plant and experience digestive discomfort or nausea, so it is best to start with a small amount. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any wild plants for medicinal purposes.
Conclusion
For those who can ensure a safe, chemical-free source, dollarweed can be a surprising and nutritious addition to a diet. This wild edible, with its vitamin and mineral content, offers an alternative to common greens. However, the crucial step of proper identification and sourcing cannot be overstated. When in doubt, it is best to leave the plant alone. For anyone considering adding this or any wild plant to their diet, prioritizing safety is the most important factor in a positive and healthy foraging experience. For more information on plant identification, authoritative sources like university extension offices are recommended, such as the North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox.
