Overview
Peucedanum macrocarpum Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray, also known as California cowparsnip, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to California, particularly in the northwestern region of the state.
Appearance
The plant can grow up to six feet tall with large leaves that can reach two feet in diameter. Its stem is stout and hairy with a diameter of up to two inches. The flowers are white or light yellow and have a diameter of about one-eighth of an inch. The fruits are oval and can reach up to 0.3 inches long with a hairy surface.
Common Names
Aside from California cowparsnip, Peucedanum macrocarpum Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray also goes by the following names:
- Bigseed biscuitroot
- Buckley's gumweed
- California lomatium
- Lomatium macrocarpum
Uses
Peucedanum macrocarpum Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray has both medicinal and culinary uses. The roots of the plant were traditionally used by Native American tribes to treat various ailments such as cough, colds, and sore throat. The roots were also believed to have diuretic properties that help in treating kidney and bladder diseases.
Today, the plant is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and urban landscapes due to its unique appearance and large size. It is also used as an ingredient in various dishes of Native American cuisine.
Light Requirements
Peucedanum macrocarpum Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray, commonly known as the bigseed biscuitroot, requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. In areas that receive a lot of sunlight, this plant can grow up to three feet tall. However, it can tolerate some shade and can do well in partially shaded areas.
Temperature Requirements
The bigseed biscuitroot is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can be found growing in a wide variety of locations including deserts, grasslands, and sagebrush habitats. The plant is adapted to the hot and dry weather typically found in the western United States, but it can also survive cold temperatures. Ideal temperature for the growth of the Peucedanum macrocarpum ranges from 45°F to 75°F.
Soil Requirements
The bigseed biscuitroot can grow in a wide range of soil types, from sandy, loamy to clay soils. However, the most important characteristic of the soil is its drainage. Peucedanum macrocarpum prefers well-drained soils with good moisture holding capacity. It cannot tolerate waterlogged soils as this can lead to root rot and other diseases. In addition to being well-drained, the soil should also be neutral to slightly alkaline with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
Cultivation
Peucedanum macrocarpum Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray is best grown in full sun and well-drained soil. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, but it is sensitive to waterlogging and should not be planted in areas with poor drainage.
For best results, start the seeds indoors before the last frost date. When the seedlings are big enough, transplant them outside. Alternatively, the plant can be propagated through root division or stem cuttings.
Watering Needs
Peucedanum macrocarpum Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray prefers slightly moist but not waterlogged soil. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often in hot and dry weather.
Make sure the soil is not allowed to dry out completely, as this can lead to stunted growth and produce a smaller yield.
Fertilization
Peucedanum macrocarpum Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray can benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season and follow the instructions on the packet, adjusting the amount depending on the size of your plant.
It is also a good idea to apply a layer of compost around the base of the plant after pruning to boost growth and health.
Pruning
Peucedanum macrocarpum Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray benefits from regular pruning as it helps to promote bushy growth and a higher yield. Prune the plant in the early spring before new growth appears.
Start by removing any dead or diseased branches, then prune back the remaining branches to roughly one-third of their length. This will encourage new growth and help to maintain the plant's shape.
You can also prune the plant after it has finished blooming to promote further growth and a higher yield.
Propagation of Peucedanum macrocarpum Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray
Peucedanum macrocarpum Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray, commonly known as canyon sweet cicely, is a hardy perennial plant that is widespread across western North America. It is a member of the Apiaceae family and is known for its sweet, anise-like fragrance and flavor.
Seed Propagation
Peucedanum macrocarpum Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray can be propagated from seed. The best time to sow the seeds is in the fall, as this mimics the natural growing conditions of the plant. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until the seeds germinate, which can take up to a month. Once the seedlings have reached a few inches in height, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Division
Peucedanum macrocarpum Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray can also be propagated through division. This should be done in the early spring before the plant begins to grow. The plant should be carefully dug up and the root system should be divided into smaller pieces. Each division should have at least one healthy shoot and root system. The divisions should be replanted at the same depth as before and watered regularly until they are established.
Disease Management
The Peucedanum macrocarpum plant is susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases that can harm the plant's growth and development. The common diseases that may affect this plant include:
- Crown rot: This is a fungal disease that causes the plant's crown to rot, leading to plant collapse. The roots may become discolored and decayed, and the plant will eventually die. To manage this disease, it is crucial to plant in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes dark, circular lesions on the plant's leaves. The infected leaves may turn yellow and drop prematurely. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi that attack the plant's root system. Overwatering and poor drainage encourage the growth of root-rotting fungi. To prevent root rot, it is crucial to plant in well-draining soil, avoid overwatering, and treat plants with fungicides before planting.
Pest Management
Peucedanum macrocarpum plants may also suffer from insect and pest infestations that can cause considerable damage. The common pests that may attack this plant include:
- Aphids: These are tiny, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to curl, yellow, and wilt. To manage aphid infestation, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or predatory insects.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny arachnids that infest the plant's leaves, causing yellowing and leaf drop. Spider mites thrive in dry and dusty conditions. Keep the plant foliage clean and mist regularly to prevent spider mite infestation.
- Caterpillars: These are the larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the plant's leaves, causing extensive damage. To manage caterpillar infestation, handpick and remove them or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), a natural pesticide.
