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Description
Pastinaca, also known as the parsnip, is a biennial plant from the family Apiaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia and is widely cultivated for its edible root. The plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and has a thick, fleshy taproot that is creamy-white in color. The leaves are pinnate and can grow up to 10 inches long. The plant produces small, white or yellow flowers in umbels that are about 3 inches wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Pastinaca |
Appearance
Pastinaca has a distinctive appearance with its tall, upright stems and large, divided leaves. The plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and has a thick, fleshy taproot that can be 12 inches long and 3 inches wide. The root is creamy-white in color and has a sweet, nutty flavor. The leaves are pinnate and can grow up to 10 inches long. The plant produces small, white or yellow flowers in umbels that are about 3 inches wide.
Care Guide
Pastinaca is a hardy plant that is easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this plant:Water: Pastinaca requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Be sure to water the plant deeply and regularly to keep the soil moist.Fertilization: Pastinaca benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season and again midway through the season.Soil: Pastinaca prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.Sunlight: Pastinaca prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Plant the seeds in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Pastinaca is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pastinaca is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by a few common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that affect this plant:- Carrot fly: This pest can attack the roots of the plant and cause them to rot. To prevent this, plant the seeds in a location that is away from other plants in the Apiaceae family, such as carrots and celery.- Leaf spot: This disease can cause brown spots to appear on the leaves of the plant. To prevent this, avoid watering the plant from above and remove any infected leaves.- Root rot: This disease can cause the roots of the plant to become soft and mushy. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Pastinaca is native to Europe and Asia but is now widely cultivated around the world. It prefers well-draining soil and can grow in a variety of climates, including hot, dry regions and cooler, more temperate areas. The plant is typically grown as an annual but can be grown as a biennial in some regions.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I plant Pastinaca seeds?
A: Pastinaca seeds should be planted in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked.
Q: Can Pastinaca be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Pastinaca can be grown in containers as long as the container is at least 12 inches deep and wide.
Q: How long does it take for Pastinaca to mature?
A: Pastinaca takes approximately 120 days to mature.
Q: Can I grow Pastinaca from cuttings?
A: No, Pastinaca cannot be grown from cuttings. It is typically grown from seeds.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Pastinaca:- Carrots (Daucus carota)- Celery (Apium graveolens)- Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)- Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
References
– “Parsnip.” Better Homes & Gardens. https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/vegetable/parsnip/- “Pastinaca sativa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282210&isprofile=0&- “Growing Parsnips.” The Old Farmer’s Almanac. https://www.almanac.com/plant/parsnips
