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Description
Sium latifolium, commonly known as the greater water-parsnip, is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. This plant is a member of the Apiaceae family and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has a thick, fleshy root system and long, hollow stems that are ribbed and grooved. The leaves of Sium latifolium are large, compound, and pinnate, with toothed leaflets that can measure up to 25 cm in length. The flowers of this plant are small, white, and arranged in large, umbrella-like clusters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Sium |
| Species | Sium latifolium |
Appearance
Sium latifolium is a large, robust plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. It has long, hollow stems that are ribbed and grooved, and large, compound leaves that are pinnate and toothed. The leaves can measure up to 25 cm in length, and the leaflets are ovate or lanceolate in shape. The flowers of Sium latifolium are small, white, and arranged in large, umbrella-like clusters that can measure up to 20 cm in diameter. The fruit of this plant is a dry, oval-shaped schizocarp that contains two seeds.
Care Guide
Sium latifolium is a hardy plant that can tolerate a variety of growing conditions. Here are some care tips to help you grow this plant successfully:Water: Sium latifolium prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Sium latifolium does not require much fertilizer. You can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.Soil: Sium latifolium prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it does best in loamy soil.Sunlight: Sium latifolium prefers partial shade to full sun. If you live in a hot climate, make sure to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.Hardiness Zones: Sium latifolium is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sium latifolium is generally a disease-free plant, but it can be susceptible to a few pests, including:Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be found on the undersides of leaves, where they suck sap from the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and stems of Sium latifolium. They can be controlled with slug and snail bait.
Habitat
Sium latifolium is native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. It can be found growing in wetlands, along streams and rivers, and in other damp areas. In the United States, it has been introduced as an ornamental plant and can be found growing in gardens and naturalized in wetland areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sium latifolium poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.Q: Can Sium latifolium grow in a container?
A: Yes, as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and you keep the soil moist.Q: Does Sium latifolium attract bees?
A: Yes, the flowers of Sium latifolium are attractive to bees and other pollinators.Q: Can Sium latifolium be grown from seed?
A: Yes, you can sow the seeds of Sium latifolium in the spring.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Sium latifolium:- Apium graveolens (celery)- Daucus carota (carrot)- Petroselinum crispum (parsley)- Foeniculum vulgare (fennel)
References
– USDA Plants Database: Sium latifolium– Missouri Botanical Garden: Sium latifolium– University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension: Sium latifolium– Royal Horticultural Society: Sium latifolium
