Biscuitroot
Lomatium grayifam. Apiaceae
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Pl. 0252 — Lomatium grayi
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IOverview
Overview
Biscuitroot, scientifically known as Lomatium grayi, is a perennial forb or herb found in the native ranges of British Columbia, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in light soil conditions that can be either dry or moist, with a preference for full sun. It grows to a height of about 0.5 meters and is known for its edible roots and seeds, making it a valuable resource for those interested in foraging. One distinctive feature of the biscuitroot is its habitat adaptability, thriving in various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils.
Quick answers
What is Biscuitroot?
Biscuitroot, scientifically known as Lomatium grayi, is a perennial forb or herb found in the native ranges of British Columbia, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in light soil conditions that can be either dry or moist, with a preference for full sun.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
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
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant seeds in early spring or late summer for the best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 meters apart in the ground or start seedlings indoors and transplant them later.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, about once a week.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and avoid overwatering. Mulch around the plants for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead foliage to maintain plant health but wait until after flowering to avoid affecting seed production.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, and not providing enough space between plants.
VIEdible & utility
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
VIIDistribution
9 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
9 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 9 native
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Apiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Apiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 02526124-e189-4987-9dfc-38254d78b406
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