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Description
Lomatium Marginatum Var. Purpureum, also known as Purple Lomatium, is a native perennial plant found in the western United States. It belongs to the Apiaceae family and is a close relative of carrots and celery. This plant is known for its beautiful purple flowers and fern-like foliage. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a great addition to any garden or landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Lomatium |
Appearance
The Purple Lomatium has fern-like foliage that is gray-green in color. It produces beautiful, flat-topped clusters of purple flowers that bloom from May to July. The flowers are followed by slender seed pods that turn brown as they mature. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with a deep taproot that helps it survive in dry conditions.
Care Guide
The Purple Lomatium is a hardy plant that requires little maintenance once established. Here are some care tips:
- Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and less frequently during the winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
- Soil: The Purple Lomatium prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate poor soil, but will not do well in heavy clay or waterlogged areas.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause it to become leggy and weak.
- Hardiness Zones: The Purple Lomatium is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Purple Lomatium is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-drained soil. To avoid this, make sure the soil is well-drained and do not over-water the plant.
Habitat
The Purple Lomatium is native to the western United States and can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers dry, rocky soils and can tolerate hot, dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Purple Lomatium deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the Purple Lomatium is deer-resistant.
Q: Can the Purple Lomatium be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Purple Lomatium can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full size.
Q: Can the Purple Lomatium be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, some Native American tribes used the roots of the Purple Lomatium for medicinal purposes, including treating respiratory infections and fever.
Q: Is the Purple Lomatium toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that the Purple Lomatium is toxic to pets, but it is always a good idea to keep pets away from plants that they are not familiar with.
Related Plants
- Lomatium Dissectum
- Lomatium Macdougalii
- Lomatium Utile
- Lomatium Triternatum
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/lomatium_marginatum_var_purpureum.shtml
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LOMAP
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/lomatium-purple-flower.htm
