Contents
Description
Polytaenia Nuttallii, commonly known as Nuttall’s prairie parsley or mountain parsley, is a flowering plant native to North America. It belongs to the Apiaceae family and is a biennial or short-lived perennial herb that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant has a deep taproot and produces a basal rosette of leaves in the first year, followed by a flowering stem in the second year. The flowers are small, white, and arranged in umbels.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Polytaenia |
| Species: | Polytaenia nuttallii |
Appearance
The leaves of Polytaenia Nuttallii are up to 40 cm long and 20 cm wide, with a triangular shape and toothed edges. The stem is grooved and hairy. The flowers are small, white, and arranged in umbels that are up to 10 cm in diameter. The fruit is a dry schizocarp that splits into two halves, each containing a single seed. The plant blooms from June to August.
Care Guide
Polytaenia Nuttallii is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Polytaenia Nuttallii is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Polytaenia Nuttallii is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant. To prevent these problems, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Polytaenia Nuttallii is native to North America, where it is found in open woods, meadows, and prairies. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is commonly found in the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains of the United States and Canada.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Polytaenia Nuttallii a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Polytaenia Nuttallii is a hardy plant that requires minimal care, making it a good choice for beginners.
Q: Can Polytaenia Nuttallii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Polytaenia Nuttallii can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s deep taproot.
Q: Does Polytaenia Nuttallii attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Polytaenia Nuttallii attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and flies.
Q: Can Polytaenia Nuttallii be propagated by seed?
A: Yes, Polytaenia Nuttallii can be propagated by seed. Sow the seeds in the fall, or stratify them for 4-6 weeks before sowing in the spring.
Related Plants
- Polytaenia howellii
- Polytaenia nuttallii
- Polytaenia oregana
- Polytaenia paucifolia
References
- USDA Plants Database. (2021). Polytaenia Nuttallii. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PONU
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Polytaenia Nuttallii. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280822&isprofile=0&
- Wildflowers of the Rocky Mountains. (n.d.). Polytaenia Nuttallii. Retrieved from https://www.wildflowers-and-weeds.com/Plant_Families/Apiaceae/Polytaenia_nuttallii.htm
