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Description
Lomatium Hooveri is a species of flowering plant in the Apiaceae family that is native to the western United States. It is commonly known as Hoover’s biscuitroot and is named after Harold E. Hoover, a botanist who studied the flora of the Great Basin region. The plant has a taproot that can grow up to 20 cm deep and the stem can reach heights of 30-90 cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Lomatium |
| Species | Hooveri |
Appearance
The leaves of Lomatium Hooveri are divided and fern-like, with each leaflet being 2-10 cm long and 1-3 cm wide. The plant produces umbels of small, yellow-green flowers that are 2-5 mm in diameter. The flowers bloom from April to June and are followed by fruits that are flattened and elliptical in shape, 1-2 cm long and 3-5 mm wide. The plant has a distinctive odor that some describe as being similar to that of celery.
Care Guide
Lomatium Hooveri prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant, but regular watering can help the plant thrive. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can be beneficial. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lomatium Hooveri is generally free from pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Lomatium Hooveri is found in a variety of habitats, including sagebrush steppe, dry slopes, and rocky outcrops. It is commonly found in the Great Basin region of the western United States, including parts of California, Nevada, and Utah.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lomatium Hooveri a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Lomatium Hooveri has been used by indigenous peoples for its medicinal properties, including as a treatment for respiratory illnesses.
Q: Can Lomatium Hooveri be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lomatium Hooveri can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the taproot.
Q: Does Lomatium Hooveri attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Lomatium Hooveri is pollinated by a variety of insects, including bees and butterflies.
Q: Is Lomatium Hooveri invasive?
A: No, Lomatium Hooveri is not considered invasive and is a valuable addition to native plant gardens.
Related Plants
- Lomatium bradshawii
- Lomatium californicum
- Lomatium dissectum
- Lomatium foeniculaceum
References
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lomatium_hooveri
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/lomatium_hooveri.shtml
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LOHO2
