Desert Parsley
lomatium dasycarpum
Also known as: ["Desert Parsnip","Biscuit Root"]
Overview
A perennial herb native to western North America, known for its fern-like leaves and clusters of small, yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Lomatium |
| Botanical Name: | Lomatium dasycarpum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, prairies, or open woodland edges
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but benefits from added compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; major division every 3–4 years.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; primarily removing dead growth and occasional shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily) in cooler climates; partial shade during the hottest part of the day in warmer regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent heat stress.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); tolerates cold but may struggle in prolonged heat above 80°F (27°C).
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures to avoid shock.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; use a balanced formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; division of established clumps can also be done in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly in trays.
- Keep moist and in indirect light.
- Transplant seedlings when they have several true leaves.
- Divide clumps by carefully separating roots with clean cuts.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins; seeds can be sown in late summer or early fall for overwintering.
Environment
Warm (60–70°F or 15–21°C), humid environment with indirect light for seeds; division plants prefer cool temperatures and partial shade.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or sandy loam with added perlite; for division, use standard garden soil.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may aid division if roots are damaged.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–3 months to germinate; division plants establish within 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, sterile soil, watering can, sharp knife or pruners for division.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in fall for natural stratification; divide clumps every 3–4 years to maintain vigor.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead or yellowing leaves at the base; divide clumps by digging up and separating sections with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Hand pruners, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Remove dead/damaged foliage; clean tools between cuts; divide clumps if overcrowded.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 3–4 years to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the root zone; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, and allow excess to drain freely. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold; browning leaf edges in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, reduces nutrient uptake, and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below freezing without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots; move potted plants to sheltered locations; use frost cloth for outdoor plants in freezing conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may become stunted; increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation; avoid fertilizing during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLomatium dasycarpum is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of toxicity in felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLomatium dasycarpum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It has not been reported to cause adverse effects in canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLomatium dasycarpum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used traditionally for its medicinal properties, particularly in the treatment of respiratory ailments.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lomatium dasycarpum edible?
A: Yes, the roots are edible and have been used by indigenous peoples for food.
Q: Does this plant require much water?
A: No, it is drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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