Alexanders
Smyrnium olustratum
Apiaceae
Other names
Horse Parsley
Growth habit
Herbaceous
Perennation
Biennial
Native distribution
Mediterranean Region and Western Europe; Naturalized in Bermuda
Biocultural value
Tender young leaves were eaten in salads by the ancient Romans.
Location
Source of plant
Nichols Garden Nursery, Jardin Botanique de la Ville et de l'Universite de Caen
Description
To 1.5m; stem solid, ridged. Leaves to 30cm, 2-3 pinnate or ternate, segments rhombic-ovate, 2-8cm, dark green and shiny, ternatisect, with inflated, sheathing petiole. Umbels with 7-15 rays; flowers yellow. Fruits 7-8mm, black; mericarps with 3 prominent ridges.
USDA Hardiness Zone
5
Special characteristics
food