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Description
Lomatium Observatorium is a member of the parsley family, Apiaceae. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 50cm tall and is native to North America. The plant has a taproot and produces a rosette of leaves that are often divided into leaflets. The flowers are small and white, produced in umbrella-shaped clusters, and bloom from May to June. The seeds of the plant are oval-shaped and have tiny projections that aid in dispersal.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Lomatium |
Appearance
The stems of Lomatium Observatorium are slender, hollow, and have a reddish-brown color. The leaves are fern-like, with multiple segments that are finely divided. The plant produces small, white flowers that are arranged in umbels. The fruits of the plant are oval-shaped and have a brown color. The taproot of the plant is long and can extend up to 1 meter into the soil.
Care Guide
Lomatium Observatorium is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant prefers dry soil and can tolerate drought conditions. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is sandy or loamy.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lomatium Observatorium is not commonly affected by pests or diseases. However, here are some issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can infest the plant and cause damage to the leaves and flowers.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves and can be prevented by removing infected leaves and providing good air circulation.
Habitat
Lomatium Observatorium is native to North America and can be found in dry, rocky areas such as slopes, meadows, and prairies. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lomatium Observatorium toxic?
A: No, the plant is not toxic to humans or animals.
Q: Can Lomatium Observatorium be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained.
Q: Does Lomatium Observatorium attract bees?
A: Yes, the plant is a good source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Q: Can Lomatium Observatorium be used in cooking?
A: No, the plant is not commonly used in cooking.
Related Plants
- Lomatium bicolor
- Lomatium canbyi
- Lomatium dissectum
- Lomatium grayi
References
- “Lomatium Observatorium.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c630.
- “Lomatium Observatorium.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LOOB.
- “Lomatium Observatorium.” Washington Native Plant Society, www.wnps.org/plants/lomatium-observatorium.html.
