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

Robison Herb Garden

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