Perfoliate Alexanders
smyrnium perfoliatum
Also known as: ["Perfoliate Alexanders","Wild Celery"]
Overview
A biennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and Western Asia, known for its hollow, perfoliate leaves and yellowish-green flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Smyrnium |
| Botanical Name: | Smyrnium perfoliatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically after flowering or when deadheading.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only spent flowers or damaged leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged cold.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature indoors.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or root division; stem cuttings can also be attempted but are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite for cuttings.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings but is optional.
Timeline
Seeds may take 2–4 weeks to germinate; cuttings may root in 3–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pruners, rooting hormone (optional), humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster germination; avoid disturbing roots during transplanting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves at the base; deadhead flowers to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health.
Tools
Clean bypass pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh soil with good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; use frost cloth for protection; ensure soil doesn’t freeze.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSmyrnium perfoliatum is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicSmyrnium perfoliatum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicSmyrnium perfoliatum, commonly known as Alexanders, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has been historically used as a food plant and in traditional medicine.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Smyrnium perfoliatum edible?
A: Historical records suggest it was used as a food source, but modern consumption is not recommended due to potential toxicity.
Q: How tall does Perfoliate Alexanders grow?
A: It typically reaches heights of 1 to 1.5 meters.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
