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Description
Seseli Ponticum, also known as the Giant Hogweed or Caucasian Parsley, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. Native to the Caucasus and the Caspian Sea regions, it is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world. The plant can grow up to 2 meters tall and has a distinctive umbrella-shaped flower head that can measure up to 30 centimeters in diameter. The leaves are large, deeply lobed, and can grow up to 1 meter long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Seseli |
Appearance
The Seseli Ponticum has a robust stem that is hollow and ridged, which can grow up to 10 centimeters in diameter. The leaves are dark green and have a glossy appearance. The plant produces large white flowers that can grow up to 30 centimeters in diameter. The flowers have many tiny petals and are arranged in large umbels, which can be up to 50 centimeters in diameter. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and produces seeds in the fall.
Care Guide
Seseli Ponticum prefers to grow in a sunny location with well-drained soil. The plant requires a moderate amount of water and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Seseli Ponticum is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Insects can be controlled by spraying the plant with an insecticidal soap, while diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Seseli Ponticum is native to the Caucasus and the Caspian Sea regions in Asia. It grows in rocky areas, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant has been widely introduced as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world and can be found in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Seseli Ponticum poisonous?
A: Yes, Seseli Ponticum contains toxic sap that can cause skin irritation and blistering.
Q: Can Seseli Ponticum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Seseli Ponticum can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: How often should Seseli Ponticum be watered?
A: Seseli Ponticum should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch. It is important not to overwater the plant as it can cause root rot.
Q: How long does it take for Seseli Ponticum to bloom?
A: Seseli Ponticum blooms from late spring to early summer and the flowers can last for several weeks.
Related Plants
- Seseli Gummiferum
- Seseli Montanum
- Seseli Libanotis
References
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14713/Seseli-ponticum/Details
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/seseli-ponticum
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/perennial/seseli-ponticum/
