Cow Parsnip
Heracleum sphondylium montanum
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Pl. 5689 — Heracleum sphondylium montanum
Heracleum sphondylium montanumHeracleum sphondylium montanumHeracleum sphondylium montanumHeracleum sphondylium montanumHeracleum sphondylium montanumHeracleum sphondylium montanumHeracleum sphondylium montanumHeracleum sphondylium montanumHeracleum sphondylium montanumHeracleum sphondylium montanumHeracleum sphondylium montanumHeracleum sphondylium montanumHeracleum sphondylium montanumHeracleum sphondylium montanum
IOverview
Overview
Cow Parsnip (Heracleum sphondylium montanum) is a tall, perennial forb/herb that can grow up to 2.4 meters in height and thrives in moist soils with a pH range of 5.4–7.3. Native to Europe and western Asia, this plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate full shade. Cow Parsnip is known for its edible parts, which include the flowers, leaves, roots, shoots, and stems. This plant is hardy in zones 4-8 and is often used as an ornamental due to its distinctive large leaves and white umbels of flowers. Its light green foliage and tall stature make it a striking addition to gardens or natural landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Cow Parsnip?
Cow Parsnip (Heracleum sphondylium montanum) is a tall, perennial forb/herb that can grow up to 2.4 meters in height and thrives in moist soils with a pH range of 5.4–7.3. Native to Europe and western Asia, this plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate full shade.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cow Parsnip thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions from zones 4-8. Propagate through seeds or division of roots. This perennial grows up to 2.4 meters tall and can be used for its edible flowers, leaves, root, shoots, and stems. Ensure the soil pH ranges between 5.4 and 7.3 for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
2.4 m tall
Soil pH
5.4–7.3
For first-time growers
How to grow Cow Parsnip for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Cow Parsnip in a sunny spot and follow these steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Cow Parsnip plants or seeds, garden soil, water can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with moist, well-draining soil. Amend heavy clay or sandy soils with compost.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep in the ground or transplant young plants, spacing them about 60 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Prune dead foliage in late winter or early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune spent flowers to encourage new growth and remove any yellowing leaves for a tidy appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in too sunny a spot, neglecting to prune dead foliage.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesRootShootsStem
Edible uses: Condiment, Salt
Other uses:DyeCraftingtextiles
Contextrange · companions · related
IXSpecimen gallery
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Specimen gallery
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Companion planting
Growing zone
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