Lomatium Caruifolium

Description

Lomatium caruifolium, also known as carawayleaf biscuitroot, is a perennial herb native to western North America. It typically grows to be 30-60 cm tall and has a taproot that can reach up to 30 cm deep. The plant is characterized by its delicate and feathery leaves, which resemble those of carrot plants. It produces small yellow flowers that are arranged in umbels and bloom from April to June.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Lomatium caruifolium has feathery, finely divided leaves that are arranged in a basal rosette. The leaves are about 10-20 cm long and have a pungent odor when crushed. The plant produces small yellow flowers that are arranged in umbrella-shaped clusters at the tips of the stems. The flowers are about 0.5 cm in diameter and bloom from April to June. The plant’s taproot is thick and fleshy, and can reach up to 30 cm deep.

Care Guide

Water: Lomatium caruifolium prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil is dry.Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary for Lomatium caruifolium.Soil: Lomatium caruifolium prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH of 6.0-7.0 is ideal.Sunlight: Lomatium caruifolium prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Lomatium caruifolium is hardy in USDA Zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Lomatium caruifolium is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. It may also attract aphids and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.

Habitat

Lomatium caruifolium is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-drained soils and is often found growing in rocky or sandy areas.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Lomatium caruifolium edible?
A: Yes, the taproot of Lomatium caruifolium is edible and has a flavor similar to that of carrots.Q: How do you propagate Lomatium caruifolium?
A: Lomatium caruifolium can be propagated by seed or by dividing the plant in early spring.Q: Does Lomatium caruifolium have any medicinal uses?
A: Yes, Lomatium caruifolium has traditionally been used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes, including treating colds and respiratory infections.Q: Is Lomatium caruifolium deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Lomatium caruifolium is deer-resistant.

Related Plants

• Lomatium dissectum
• Lomatium grayi
• Lomatium utriculatum
• Lomatium triternatum

References

• “Lomatium caruifolium.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LOCA25.
• “Lomatium caruifolium.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LOCA25.
• Moore, Michael. Medicinal Plants of the Pacific West. Santa Fe, NM: Museum of New Mexico Press, 1993.
• “Lomatium caruifolium.” Montana Plant Life, www.montana.plant-life.org/species/lomati_carui.htm.