Contents
Description
Lomatium Quintuplex is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the carrot family, Apiaceae. It is commonly known as biscuitroot, Indian parsley, or five-leaved desert parsley. The plant has a woody taproot that can grow up to 30 cm in length and produces a stem that can reach up to 80 cm tall. The leaves are compound and have five leaflets that are narrow and pointed. The plant produces small white or yellow flowers that are arranged in umbels. Lomatium Quintuplex is native to North America and is commonly found in the western United States, especially in arid regions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Lomatium |
| Species | Quintuplex |
Appearance
Lomatium Quintuplex has a distinctive appearance with its compound leaves that have five narrow and pointed leaflets. The stem can grow up to 80 cm tall and produces small white or yellow flowers that are arranged in umbels. The plant has a woody taproot that can grow up to 30 cm in length and is often used in traditional medicine. The leaves and stem of the plant are also sometimes used as a food source by Native American tribes.
Care Guide
Lomatium Quintuplex grows well in arid regions and requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The plant is drought tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost or organic fertilizer can help improve the soil quality. Lomatium Quintuplex is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lomatium Quintuplex is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites if grown in moist conditions. The plant can also be affected by powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions. To prevent pests and diseases, it is recommended to grow the plant in dry conditions and avoid over-watering.
Habitat
Lomatium Quintuplex is native to North America and is commonly found in the western United States, especially in arid regions. The plant grows well in dry, rocky soils and is often found in grasslands, prairies, and sagebrush communities. It is also commonly found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lomatium Quintuplex edible?
A: Yes, the taproot, leaves, and stems of the plant are edible and have been used as a food source by Native American tribes.
Q: What is Lomatium Quintuplex used for in traditional medicine?
A: The woody taproot of the plant has been used to treat respiratory infections and as a cough suppressant.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lomatium Quintuplex?
A: Lomatium Quintuplex is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Q: Is Lomatium Quintuplex a good plant for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, Lomatium Quintuplex is a drought-tolerant plant that grows well in dry conditions, making it a good plant for xeriscaping.
Related Plants
- Lomatium dissectum
- Lomatium grayi
- Lomatium triternatum
- Lomatium utriculatum
- Lomatium nudicaule
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/lomatium_quintuplex.shtml
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LOQU2
- https://www.nps.gov/plants/pubs/intermountain_nursery/Lomatium_quintuplex.htm
- https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/104365-Lomatium-quintuplex
