Apium graveolens Wild celery (Umbelliferae)

Browse Plants Articles

Power Search!

Browse Botanic Names

Sponsored By KhorWills

Apium graveolens
Wild celery
(1 Page of 5)

The Apium graveolens plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Umbelliferae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Wild celery.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Apium graveolens
Common Name:  Wild celery
Family:  Umbelliferae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  If the plant is infected with the fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, skin contact with the sap can cause dermatitis in sensitive people[65]. This is more likely to happen to Caucasians[218].

Mature Height:  0.6   Mature Width:  0.25

Habitat:  Ditches, by rivers and in other damp locations, especially near the sea in salt marshes[9, 17, 100].

Medicinal Information: Wild celery is an aromatic bitter tonic herb that reduces blood pressure, relieves indigestion, stimulates the uterus and is antiinflammatory[238]. The ripe seeds, herb and root are aperient, carminative, diuretic, emmenagogue, galactogogue, nervine, stimulant and tonic[4, 7, 21, 165]. Wild celery is said to be useful in cases of hysteria, promoting restfulness and sleep and diffusing through the system a mild sustaining influence[4]. The herb should not be prescribed for pregnant women[238]. Seeds purchased for cultivation purposes are often dressed with a fungicide, they should not be used for medicinal purposes[238]. The root is harvested in the autumn and can be used fresh or dried[238]. The whole plant is harvested when fruiting and is usually liquidized to extract the juice[238]. The seeds are harvested as they ripen and are dried for later use[238]. An essential oil obtained from the plant has a calming effect on the central nervous system. Some of its constituents have antispasmodic, sedative and anticonvulsant actions. It has been shown to be of value in treating high blood pressure[254]. A homeopathic remedy is made from the herb[9]. It is used in treating rheumatism and kidney complaints[9].

For further Apium graveolens 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