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Description
Lomatium minimum, also known as dwarf lomatium or fernleaf biscuitroot, is a native American plant that belongs to the carrot family. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 6 inches tall and spreads up to 12 inches wide. This plant is commonly found in the high desert and mountain ranges of western North America, particularly in California, Oregon, and Nevada.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Lomatium |
Appearance
The leaves of Lomatium minimum are fern-like and finely divided, measuring up to 2 inches long. The stems are slender and covered with fine hairs. The flowers are yellow and small, measuring up to 0.2 inches wide. They bloom from April to June and are followed by small, dry fruits that are flattened and oval-shaped.
Care Guide
Lomatium minimum is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care. Here are some tips to keep it healthy and thriving:- Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil and does not require much water. Water it only when the soil is dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Lomatium minimum does not require fertilization.- Soil: This plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil. It can grow in poor soil conditions.- Sunlight: Lomatium minimum prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lomatium minimum is relatively pest-free but can be susceptible to some diseases, including:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil. It can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage.- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing damage to the leaves. They can be treated with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Lomatium minimum is commonly found in dry, rocky soils in the high desert and mountain ranges of western North America. It is often found growing in sagebrush, pinyon-juniper woodlands, and other dry habitats. This plant is an important part of the ecosystem and provides food and habitat for a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and small mammals.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lomatium minimum a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Lomatium minimum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginners.
Q: Can Lomatium minimum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lomatium minimum can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: Does Lomatium minimum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Lomatium minimum attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Q: Is Lomatium minimum endangered?
A: No, Lomatium minimum is not currently listed as endangered, but it is important to protect its natural habitat to ensure its survival.
Related Plants
– Lomatium triternatum- Lomatium nudicaule- Lomatium grayi- Lomatium dissectum- Lomatium dasycarpum
References
– “Lomatium minimum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LOMI2- “Lomatium minimum.” USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LOMI2- “Fernleaf Biscuitroot (Lomatium minimum).” Idaho Native Plant Society. https://idahonativeplants.org/ferns/biscuitroot_lomatium_minimum.html
