Pastinaca sativa Parsnip (Umbelliferae)

Browse Plants Articles

Power Search!

Browse Botanic Names

Sponsored By KhorWills

Pastinaca sativa
Parsnip
(1 Page of 5)

The Pastinaca sativa plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Umbelliferae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Parsnip. Some home gardeners know the variety as Peucedanum sativum.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Pastinaca sativa
Common Name:  Parsnip
Family:  Umbelliferae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  Skin contact with the sap can cause photosensitivity and/or dermatitis in some people[65, 76, 218]. Parsnip is said to contain the alleged 'psychotroph' myristicine[218].

Mature Height:  1   Mature Width:  0.25

Habitat:  Roadsides and grassy waste places, especially on chalk and limestone[17].

Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[2, 4, 5, 9, 27, 183]. When well grown, the cooked root has a very tender texture, though it is rather chewy raw[K]. It is best harvested after there have been some autumn frosts because it will have developed a sweeter flavour[61]. The root is delicious baked, it can also be used in soups etc and can be added to cakes, pies and puddings[183]. Leaves and young shoots - cooked with other greens as a vegetable or added to soups etc[9, 183]. Used in early spring[9]. The seed is used as a condiment[9]. Similar in taste to dill[183].

For further Pastinaca sativa gardening information
click on one of the blue links below

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
View their bibliography
Useful Edible Plants Future