Celandine Parsley

peucedanum ostruthium

Also known as: ["Mountain Celery","Water Avens"]

Family: Apiaceae Genus: Peucedanum Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Alps and Carpathian Mountains, known for its dissected leaves and small, yellow flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Apiales
Family: Apiaceae
Genus: Peucedanum
Botanical Name: Peucedanum ostruthium

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
  • 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: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, humus-rich soil with added compost

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; topdress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) are acceptable during dormancy.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use pure sand or vermiculite.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take 2–4 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water 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.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are 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, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Peucedanum ostruthium may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Peucedanum ostruthium can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, disrupting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Peucedanum ostruthium are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, which can reduce photosynthetic efficiency and lead to premature leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Peucedanum ostruthium due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Peucedanum ostruthium. The plant's compounds can irritate the digestive system, though severe toxicity is uncommon.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea drooling depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots leaves seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Peucedanum ostruthium by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal distress due to the plant's irritant compounds. Allergic reactions are possible but rare.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots leaves seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of pets. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Peucedanum ostruthium contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and allergic reactions in some individuals. The plant's essential oils and other secondary metabolites may irritate the digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain skin rash
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots leaves seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Consume only in moderation and ensure proper identification. Avoid use if allergic to Apiaceae family plants.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Peucedanum ostruthium edible?

A: The plant is not commonly consumed, and its edibility is uncertain; it is best to avoid ingestion.

Q: Does Peucedanum ostruthium attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Q: How should Peucedanum ostruthium be cared for?

A: It prefers partial shade, moist soil, and moderate watering; it can tolerate some drought once established.

Quick Reference
Family: Apiaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun with
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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