This monotypic genus occurs in mesic woods on base-rich soils of east-central states, centered in the Ohio Valley. It is one of the earliest species to flower, mostly during late Feb to early Apr in central Ky., but as early as the last week of Jan during some years since 1990; Short (1828-9) reported 1st-15th Mar. Based on Buddell & Thieret's thorough account (1985), Erigenia has several other unusual features in its life-cycle, including only one developed cotyledon (as in Claytonia virginica and Dicentra cucullaria). It is one of the few eastern Apiaceae with tubers, and they are highly palatable to generalist herbivores. In agricultural regions of Ky., Erigenia is often restricted to remnants of older woods that have probably escaped past rooting by hogs. Based on his experience in northern Ky., Nelson (1918) stated: "The little tubers were very eagerly sought after by the children, who would organize regular hunting-parties and bring them in by the quart. They had a delightful nutty flavor, and were a real delicacy. Locally they were known as turkey-peas, a name that I have never heard applied to these tubers elsewhere; nor have I ever known any other region where the edible qualities of the plant were as much esteemed." Riddell (1834) had also noted this common name for Erigenia in the central Ohio Valley.