Contents
Description
Lomatium utriculatum, commonly known as Indian Parsnip or Common Lomatium, is a perennial flowering plant native to western North America. It belongs to the carrot family (Apiaceae) and is a popular choice for wildflower gardens and landscaping. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and bears yellow flowers in the spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Lomatium |
Appearance
The Indian Parsnip has a slender stem with feathery leaves that are green to gray-green in color. The leaves are approximately 10-20 inches long and 1-4 inches wide. The plant produces bright yellow flowers in clusters, which bloom from April to June. The flowers are followed by seeds that are dispersed by wind.
Care Guide
Lomatium utriculatum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. Here are some tips for taking care of Indian Parsnip:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Lomatium utriculatum thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Indian Parsnip is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot and leaf spot. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. It can be treated with fungicide.
Habitat
Lomatium utriculatum is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lomatium utriculatum edible?
A: Yes, the roots of Indian Parsnip are edible and were traditionally used by Native Americans for food and medicine.
Q: Can I grow Lomatium utriculatum in a container?
A: Yes, Indian Parsnip can be grown in a container as long as it has enough space to grow and the soil is well-drained.
Q: Does Lomatium utriculatum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the bright yellow flowers of Indian Parsnip attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Q: Is Lomatium utriculatum a threatened species?
A: No, Indian Parsnip is not currently listed as a threatened or endangered species.
Related Plants
- Lomatium dissectum
- Lomatium triternatum
- Lomatium utriculatum
- Lomatium nudicaule
- Lomatium grayi
References
- “Lomatium utriculatum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LOUT.
- “Lomatium utriculatum – Indian Parsnip.” Montana Field Guide, Montana Natural Heritage Program and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, fieldguide.mt.gov/species/167070.
- “Lomatium utriculatum.” USDA Plants Database, United States Department of Agriculture, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LOUT.
