Contents
Description
Lomatium Lucidum, also known as glossy desert-parsley, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to western North America, where it grows in arid regions, rocky slopes, and open forests. This plant has thin and wiry stems that can reach up to 2 feet in height. Its leaves are bright green, glossy, and divided into narrow leaflets. During the spring and summer months, Lomatium Lucidum produces small yellow-green flowers that are arranged in umbels.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Lomatium |
| Species | Lucidum |
Appearance
Lomatium Lucidum is a visually appealing plant that can add a touch of greenery to any garden. Its glossy leaves and delicate flowers make it a popular choice for ornamental purposes. The plant’s stems are thin and wiry, while its leaves are bright green and glossy. The leaves are divided into narrow leaflets that give them a feathery appearance. During the spring and summer months, Lomatium Lucidum produces small yellow-green flowers that are arranged in umbels. The plant’s seeds are small and oval-shaped, and they are dispersed by wind.
Care Guide
Lomatium Lucidum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and can survive on little water. Water it only when the soil is completely dry.
- Fertilization: Lomatium Lucidum does not require fertilization. However, if you want to promote growth, you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil once a year.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can grow in sandy, rocky, or loamy soils.
- Sunlight: Lomatium Lucidum thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can stunt its growth.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lomatium Lucidum is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too moist. To prevent this, ensure that the soil is well-draining and do not over-water the plant. In addition, aphids and spider mites may occasionally infest the plant. If you notice any of these pests, you can spray the plant with a mild insecticide or hose it down with water.
Habitat
Lomatium Lucidum is native to western North America, where it grows in arid regions, rocky slopes, and open forests. It can be found in California, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. This plant thrives in dry and sunny areas and can tolerate poor soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lomatium Lucidum edible?
A: Yes, the roots of Lomatium Lucidum have been traditionally used by Native Americans as a food source.
Q: Can Lomatium Lucidum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: How often should I water Lomatium Lucidum?
A: Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry. This may be once a week or once every two weeks, depending on your climate and soil conditions.
Q: Does Lomatium Lucidum attract bees?
A: Yes, the plant’s small yellow-green flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Lomatium Dissectum
- Lomatium Grayi
- Lomatium Nevadense
- Lomatium Triternatum
References
- “Lomatium Lucidum.” Calflora. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=4900
- “Lomatium Lucidum.” USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LOLU
- “Lomatium Lucidum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LOLU
