Lomatium

Lomatium utriculatum 6416

Lomatium is a genus of flowering plants in the Apiaceae family, known commonly as biscuitroots, desert parsley, or Indian parsley. This genus is native primarily to western North America, with many species endemic to the Pacific Northwest. Lomatium species are perennial herbs with a variety of growth habits, ranging from low-growing to tall and erect. They are notable for their large, compound umbels of yellow, white, or sometimes purple flowers and their highly dissected leaves.

Description

Lomatium plants vary significantly in size and form but share some common characteristics. They typically have thick, woody taproots that enable them to survive in arid conditions. The leaves are generally basal and highly divided, sometimes almost to the point of being feathery. The flowers are small and arranged in umbels, with each umbel containing numerous individual flowers. These flowers produce a characteristic fruit known as a schizocarp, which splits into two one-seeded halves when mature.

Habitat and Distribution

Lomatium species are found in a variety of habitats, from coastal bluffs and mountain meadows to desert valleys. They are especially prevalent in the sagebrush steppe of the Great Basin and the rocky soils of the Pacific Northwest. Their ability to thrive in diverse and often harsh environments is largely due to their deep taproots, which access water from deep within the soil.

Ecological Role

The flowers of Lomatium species are an important source of nectar for pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other insects. The plants also serve as food sources for various animals. For example, some species' roots are edible and have been traditionally harvested by Indigenous peoples for food and medicinal purposes.

Uses

Historically, Lomatium has been used by Native American tribes for a variety of purposes. The roots of some species, such as Lomatium dissectum, are known for their antiviral properties and have been used to treat respiratory infections. Other species have been used as food sources, with the roots being either consumed directly or ground into flour.

Conservation

While many Lomatium species are common and not considered at risk, some are rare and face threats from habitat destruction, overgrazing, and invasive species. Conservation efforts for these plants often involve habitat protection and restoration, as well as research into their ecological roles and traditional uses.

Selected Species

• Lomatium dissectum – Fernleaf biscuitroot
• Lomatium grayi – Gray's biscuitroot
• Lomatium triternatum – Nineleaf biscuitroot

See Also

• Apiaceae – The carrot family
• Flora of the Pacific Northwest
• Traditional medicine