Achlys triphylla facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Achlys triphylla
Achlys triphylla (Rood Bridge Park, Hillsboro, Oregon)
Scientific classification
Genus:	Achlys
Species:	triphylla
Synonyms
Leontice triphylla Smith in A. Rees

Achlys triphylla, also known as sweet after death, deer-foot, or vanilla-leaf, is a unique plant found in the mountains along the West Coast of North America. You can spot it in places like British Columbia in Canada, and the states of Washington, Oregon, and northern California in the United States. It grows in mountain areas, sometimes as high as 1500 meters (about 5000 feet) above sea level.

This interesting plant is a type of herb. It usually grows to be about 40 centimeters (16 inches) tall. Achlys triphylla has special leaves that look like three leaflets joined together, which is why it's called "trifoliate." It also produces small, white flowers.

Traditional Uses of Vanilla-Leaf

For a long time, different Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest have used the vanilla-leaf plant. They used the leaves to make a special drink. This drink was given to people who were feeling unwell with certain health problems.

One group, the Lummi people, used the whole plant. They would mash it up and soak it in water. This mixture was then drunk to help the body get rid of things that were making someone sick. It was a way to cleanse the body.