Wild Parsnip

At maturity, this species reaches approximately 3 to 5 feet tall, presenting Compound leaves with serrated edges, typically in a rosette formation along with Small yellow flowers arranged in umbrella-shaped clusters (umbels), followed by Dry, two-seeded fruits (schizocarps) which are flattened and ridged. These features are supported by a reliable Taproot, ensuring stability and sustained growth.

Native to Native to Europe and Asia; now found in North America, Wild Parsnip thrives in Disturbed areas, roadsides, fields, and moist meadows at elevations around Sea level to about 1,500 meters. Best suited for USDA Hardiness Zone 3 to 9. Whether grown indoor, in a curated garden or a more natural setting, its ecological requirements help maintain its vigor over time.

You can use our free plant identify app PlantPlants to chose the best spot for Wild Parsnip, This plant prefers Full sun to partial shade and flourishes in Prefers loamy or sandy soils with a soil pH of about 6.0 7.5.

Wild Parsnip needs watering,Moderate; prefers moist soil but can tolerate dry periods, guided by PlantPlants app, You can get plants daily watering schedule. to maintain Moist, ensure steady hydration. Applying water through Water at the base to avoid foliage wetness supports even distribution and helps prevent overwatering or dryness.

Wild Parsnip performs best within 50 F to 85 F (10 C to 29 C). Its ideal growth occurs at around 70 F (21 C), though it tolerates ranges from Min: 30 F (-1 C); Max: 95 F (35 C). Additionally, maintaining Moderate to high humidity encourages healthy foliage and overall plant vigor.

Feeding with Balanced NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) at the recommended Seasonal Application Frequency on PlantPlants App keeps nutrients balanced. Incorporating Compost or well-rotted manure enhances soil structure and fertility, while staying alert to Yellowing leaves, stunted growth helps you adjust care as needed to maintain optimal plant health.

Regular attention ensures this plant’s beauty and longevity. Early spring for Cut back old foliage and dead flower stems tidies its appearance, while N/A (usually grown outdoors) may be necessary as it grows, requiring a N/A increase and a fresh N/A (prefer native earth). for Staking or Support. N/A (self-supporting).

During Late fall to early spring, growth may slow and some Leaves may die back in late fall can occur. For those looking to propagate, consider Seed propagation, division of roots and provide Surface sowing in spring; requires light for germination when starting from seed. If using cuttings, follow N/A (best propagated from seeds) to ensure successful rooting and healthy new plants.

our free plant identify and care app PlantPlants can help you diagnosisWild Parsnip problems.Though generally robust, keep watch for Aphids, spider mites and remain vigilant against Powdery mildew. Implementing Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering and applying Insecticidal soap for pests, fungicide for diseases when issues arise will help sustain the plant thriving.

This plant pairs nicely with Various wildflowers, beneficial insects attractors and shows May inhibit growth of nearby species, making it a flexible choice for various Naturalized areas, wildflower gardens.

the Edible Parts: Root (when cooked) and young shoots. Toxicty of Wild Parsnip, Can cause skin irritation in humans due to furanocoumarins. learning about its Late fall to early spring, harvest roots carefully, Cooked like carrots or parsnips; used in soups and stews, and Source of fiber, vitamins C and K can be intriguing for culinary explorers. Some traditions highlight its Historically used for digestive issues and as an anti-inflammatory or note its Used in traditional European cuisine before the introduction of the cultivated parsnip.

With an Not assessed (common), proper Control invasive populations in regions where it is non-native