Wild carrot

Wild carrot (Daucus carota) is a flowering plant in the family Apiaceae, native to temperate regions of Europe, southwest Asia, and naturalized to North America and Australia.

Description

The wild carrot is a biennial plant, which grows a rosette of leaves in the spring and summer, while building up the stout taproot that stores large amounts of sugars for the plant to flower in the second year. The flowering stem grows up to 1 m tall, with an umbel of white flowers that bloom from June to August. The flowers are terminal and approximately 3-7 cm wide. The distinctive feature of the wild carrot is the presence of a single dark red or purple flower in the center of the umbel, which is thought to mimic a fly, attracting insects to aid in pollination.

Distribution and habitat

The wild carrot is native to Europe and southwestern Asia, and has been introduced and naturalized in North America and Australia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including fields, meadows, waste areas, roadsides and disturbed lands.

Uses

The wild carrot's root is edible while young, but becomes too woody and fibrous to consume as the plant ages. It has a sweet flavor and can be used in soups and stews. The leaves are also edible, and can be used in salads or as a garnish. However, caution must be taken as the wild carrot closely resembles the poisonous poison hemlock.

Cultivation

The wild carrot has been cultivated for its edible root for at least 2,000 years. The cultivated carrot that we eat today was likely derived from the wild carrot.

In culture

In folklore, the wild carrot was thought to hold magical powers. It was used in love potions and was believed to increase fertility.

See also

• Carrot
• Apiaceae
• Poison hemlock

References

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