Stillingia Root – Stillingia sylvatica

Family: Euphorbiaceae     

Common Names: Queens root, Queens Delight, Queensdelight, stillingia, Yawroot, Yaw Root

Description:

Stillingia Root, commonly known as Queen’s root, is a perennial that grows up to 3 feet in height. It is a milky-juiced plant with a fleshy leathery stem. The stem supports leaves that vary in shape from round to round with saw-toothed edges. The flowers are monoecious and yellow and bloom in May and June. There is a three-lobed capsule that acts as the fruit.

Growing region: This plant can be found in the south western states from Alabama to California. It prefers the open woods and prairies, dry soil, old fields and forest openings.

Harvesting/Drying:

Parts used: rhizome and roots that is not more than 2 years old.

Harvest the root in late August or September. Gather the larger more mature plants leaving plenty of younger smaller plants to seed the area for future harvest.

After harvest, remove all foreign matter (rocks, weeds and other roots) and spread in a thin layer immediately. When possible dry indoors in a well ventilated barn loft or attic to protect from the elements. If the roots are too big, they may need to be split to aid is drying.

If natural heat is not available you may need to add heat and a fan for continuous airflow. Whether you dry indoors or outdoors you will need to turn or stir the roots daily. The key to drying any root, herb or bark is an even combination of heat and airflow. Never dry in an oven or microwave. The Stillingia root will be completely dry (largest root will snap not bend) in 3-7 days depending on the drying conditions. Once it is dried place the roots carefully into a cardboard box or paper bag for storage in a dry area until you are ready to sell or use. Never store Stillingia root in plastic or it will mold.

Cultivation/Planting: The plants prefer sandy, loamy and clay soils that are well drained, moist and alkaline based. It prefers semi-shade or no shade.