Broadleaf Water Parsnip
sium latifolium
Also known as: ["Broadleaf Water Parsnip"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to wetland habitats, characterized by broad leaves and small white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Sium |
| Botanical Name: | Sium latifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: near water edges, in bog gardens, or in consistently moist garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- 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 content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates dappled light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun in midday summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, or when top inch of soil is dry
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, fertile, loamy soil with good organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights down to 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, peat-based mix, perlite.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools to prevent infection; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean cuts to remove dead/damaged parts; shape as desired.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape lightly; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage holes; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with finger; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; allow excess water to drain completely to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become stunted due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute properly; apply during active growth; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to mild toxicity from Sium latifolium if they consume the roots or seeds. Symptoms are typically gastrointestinal and neurological in nature, though severe reactions are rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Sium latifolium roots and seeds can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and mild neurological effects. The toxicity is generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSium latifolium contains toxic compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and neurological symptoms if ingested in significant quantities. The roots and seeds are the most toxic parts due to their higher concentration of these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sium latifolium edible?
A: Information on its edibility is limited and it is generally not recommended for consumption.
Q: Where does Sium latifolium grow naturally?
A: It is native to wetland habitats and prefers moist to wet soil conditions.
Q: Does Sium latifolium attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, or when top |
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