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Description
Lomatium Linearifolium, also known as Fernleaf Biscuitroot, is a species of flowering plant in the carrot family, Apiaceae. It is native to western North America and can be found in dry, rocky soils in sagebrush and pine forests. The plant can grow up to 2.5 feet tall and has a taproot system that can reach up to 10 feet deep. It blooms from May to July and produces clusters of small, yellow flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Lomatium |
Appearance
Lomatium Linearifolium has thin, fern-like leaves that are green and can grow up to 12 inches long. The stems are slender and reddish-brown in color. The plant produces clusters of small, yellow flowers that are about 1/8 inch in diameter. The flowers are followed by seed pods that are oval-shaped and about 1/4 inch long. The plant can grow up to 2.5 feet tall and has a taproot system that can reach up to 10 feet deep.
Care Guide
Lomatium Linearifolium is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep it healthy:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Do not overwater, as the plant prefers dry soil.
- Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary for this plant.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rocky or sandy. It can tolerate alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Lomatium Linearifolium is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lomatium Linearifolium is a relatively pest and disease-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-drained and do not water too much.
Habitat
Lomatium Linearifolium is native to western North America and can be found in dry, rocky soils in sagebrush and pine forests. It is often found growing in open areas such as meadows, hillsides, and rocky slopes. The plant is adapted to drought conditions and can survive in areas with low rainfall and high temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lomatium Linearifolium edible?
A: Yes, the root of the plant is edible and was used by Native Americans as a food source.
Q: Can Lomatium Linearifolium be propagated by seeds?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by seeds. The seeds should be sown in the fall or early spring.
Q: Does Lomatium Linearifolium have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, the root of the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory infections and other ailments.
Q: How long does it take for Lomatium Linearifolium to bloom?
A: The plant typically blooms from May to July.
Related Plants
- Lomatium triternatum (Nine-leaf Biscuitroot)
- Lomatium utriculatum (Common Lomatium)
- Lomatium dissectum (Fernleaf Biscuitroot)
References
- “Lomatium linearifolium.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – The University of Texas at Austin. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LOLI4
- “Lomatium linearifolium.” USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LOLI4
- “Fernleaf Biscuitroot (Lomatium linearifolium).” Montana Field Guide. http://fieldguide.mt.gov/speciesDetail.aspx?elcode=PDAPI0J1D0
