Deer foot Vanilla-leaf - Achlys triphylla

Appearance

• 10 cm across leaves
• 8 to 30 cm stems
• White flowers in misty clouds
• Compound leaves

Habitat

• Common in Western Washington in deep woods and forest edges
• Acidic soils with organic matter
• Low to middle elevations

Growth Habit

• Spreads slowly across the ground
• Common and locally abundant
• Bloom April to June

Natural History

• Leaves of Vanilla leaf are nearly continuous
• Were used by Saanich of Vancouver island for insect repellent
• Dried leaves have vanilla smell