Cow Parsnip
heracleum lanatum
Also known as: ["Common Cow Parsnip","Indian Celery","Pushki"]
Overview
A large, herbaceous biennial or perennial plant native to North America and parts of Asia, known for its large, divided leaves and tall, umbrella-like flower clusters.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Heracleum |
| Botanical Name: | Heracleum lanatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade, especially in hotter climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically in spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or filtered sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun; provide dappled shade in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
rich, moist, well-draining soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid overwatering; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or root division; stem cuttings can also be used but are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Provide warmth and humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
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 soil mix with perlite or sand; for seeds, use a sterile seed-starting mix.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds or division; optional for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds may take 2–4 weeks to germinate; cuttings or divisions establish in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, pots, rooting medium, misting bottle, heating mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; protect young plants from direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back leggy stems; remove yellow or dead leaves; pinch tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage; shape the plant to encourage bushier growth; control size.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches in diameter) with drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
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; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch to retain moisture.
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 or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide winter protection; move potted plants indoors; avoid placing near cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growing season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are also susceptible to photodermatitis from Heracleum lanatum due to the furanocoumarins present in the plant. The reaction can cause severe skin irritation and burns, especially if the cat has been exposed to sunlight after contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched, especially when exposed to sunlight
Dogs
ToxicSimilar to humans, dogs can experience severe photodermatitis upon contact with the sap of Heracleum lanatum, particularly when exposed to sunlight. The furanocoumarins in the plant can cause painful skin reactions in dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched, especially when exposed to sunlight
Humans
ToxicHeracleum lanatum contains furanocoumarins, which upon contact with skin and subsequent exposure to ultraviolet light, can cause severe photodermatitis, leading to painful blisters and burns. The reaction is a type of phytophotodermatitis, where the plant compounds sensitize the skin to sunlight.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched, especially when exposed to sunlight
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cow Parsnip edible?
A: Some parts are edible when cooked, but raw plant parts can cause skin irritation.
Q: Does Cow Parsnip attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Can Cow Parsnip cause skin irritation?
A: Yes, its sap can cause photodermatitis when exposed to sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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