Skip to content
IIIFolio · plant profile№ 0252edible
Data provenancePermapeopleTrefleWikipediaPFAFPOWOreviewed 14 Oct 2026methodology → read
Home/Plants/Apiaceae

Biscuitroot

Lomatium grayifam. Apiaceae
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
edibleperennialedibleedible rootnative amnative euperennial
Updated·Quick Q&A →
Garden journal pausedUse profile notes below
Lomatium grayi (Biscuitroot) — botanical photograph
Pl. 0252 — Lomatium grayi
Lomatium grayiLomatium grayiLomatium grayiLomatium grayiLomatium grayiLomatium grayiLomatium grayiLomatium grayiLomatium grayiLomatium grayiLomatium grayiLomatium grayiLomatium grayiLomatium grayi
I

Overview

Biscuitroot, scientifically known as Lomatium grayi, is a perennial forb or herb native to the western United States, including regions such as British Columbia, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in a variety of soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay), and prefers dry to moist conditions with full sun exposure. It grows to a height of about 0.5 meters and is known for its edible roots and seeds, which can be eaten raw or cooked and are often dried for later use. The biscuitroot's adaptability to different soil types and its mild flavor make it a valuable resource for foragers and gardeners alike. While not traditionally used for medicinal purposes, its edible parts contribute to the local flora and fauna. Its presence in the landscape adds both aesthetic and culinary value, making it a noteworthy plant in the western United States.

Quick answers

What is Biscuitroot?

Biscuitroot, scientifically known as Lomatium grayi, is a perennial forb or herb native to the western United States, including regions such as British Columbia, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

Compare with:Bigseed Biscuitroot→Biscuitroot→Ferula→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Biscuitroot thrives in full sun and can tolerate a variety of soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It prefers dry to moist conditions but is adaptable. This perennial grows up to 0.5 meters tall and is native to regions like British Columbia, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. For propagation, seeds can be sown directly in the garden or started indoors. The plant's edible roots and seeds make it a valuable addition to both wild and cultivated landscapes.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.5 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Biscuitroot for the first time

8steps

Start with planting Biscuitroot in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or seedlings, a trowel, and a watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant seeds in early spring or late summer for the best results.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a location with well-draining soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 0.5 meters apart in the ground or start seedlings indoors and transplant them later.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water sparingly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, about once a week.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun exposure and avoid overwatering. Mulch around the plants for moisture retention.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead foliage to maintain plant health but wait until after flowering to avoid affecting seed production.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, and not providing enough space between plants.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:RootSeed
Edible uses: The biscuitroot's root and seeds are edible. Roots can be eaten raw or cooked, while seeds are often dried for later use. Both parts add a mild flavor to dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

9 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across0 continents· 9 native
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Lomatium grayi (Biscuitroot) — botanical photograph
Biscuitroot (Lomatium grayi)
X

See also

8 related
XI

Explore further

XII

About this entry

Last updated
Citation
How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 02526124-e189-4987-9dfc-38254d78b406
Decision aid
Choosing between Biscuitroot and something else?
Compare with another plant

Continue reading

❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates

Get archive updates

Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.

Newsletter returning soon.
We are rebuilding the update list around a lightweight editorial workflow. New dispatches will resume after the next content review cycle.
iCare notes