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Description
Sium Sisarum, also known as Skirret or Crummock, is a perennial herb that belongs to the family Apiaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia and was introduced to North America in the 18th century. The plant is commonly grown for its edible root vegetable, which has a sweet flavor similar to parsnips or carrots. The root can be eaten raw or cooked and is often used in stews, soups, or as a substitute for sugar due to its sweetness.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Sium |
| Species | Sium Sisarum |
Appearance
The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has large, triangular leaves with toothed edges. It produces tiny white flowers in umbrella-shaped clusters that bloom from June to August. The root vegetable of Sium Sisarum is long and narrow, resembling a carrot or parsnip, and can grow up to 30cm in length. The skin of the root is brownish-yellow and covered in small rootlets, while the inside is white and fleshy.
Care Guide
Sium Sisarum requires regular watering during the growing season to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, and a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. It requires full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C. Sium Sisarum is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sium Sisarum is relatively pest and disease-free but can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Aphids and spider mites can also occasionally attack the plant. Regularly inspecting the plant for any signs of damage or infestation and promptly treating any issues can help prevent serious damage.
Habitat
Sium Sisarum is commonly grown in gardens and farms for its edible root vegetable. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate full sun to partial shade. The plant is native to Europe and Asia and was introduced to North America in the 18th century. It can grow in USDA zones 5-9 and requires a cool, moist climate to thrive.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I harvest Sium Sisarum?
A: The root of Sium Sisarum can be harvested in the fall after the foliage has died back. Dig up the entire plant and remove the root, then wash and store it in a cool, dark place.
Q: Can Sium Sisarum be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Sium Sisarum can be grown in a container as long as it has enough space to grow and the soil is kept moist.
Q: How long does it take for Sium Sisarum to mature?
A: Sium Sisarum takes about 120-150 days to mature from seed.
Q: Can Sium Sisarum be grown in a greenhouse?
A: Yes, Sium Sisarum can be grown in a greenhouse as long as it has enough space and light to grow.
Related Plants
- Carrot (Daucus carota)
- Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa)
- Celeriac (Apium graveolens var. rapaceum)
- Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
References
- “Sium Sisarum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a213.
- “Sium Sisarum.” Plants for a Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Sium+sisarum.
- “Skirret.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/20864/skirret/details.
