Common Lomatium
Lomatium utriculatum
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Pl. E069 — Lomatium utriculatum
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IOverview
Overview
Common Lomatium, scientifically known as Lomatium utriculatum, is a perennial forb or herb found in the wild across British Columbia, California, Oregon, and Washington. This plant thrives in various habitats, including dry to moist areas with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Common Lomatium is known for its edible parts, which include leaves, roots, and shoots. Its distinctive features include its small, delicate flowers and the ability to grow in a range of soil types, making it adaptable to different environments within its native range.
Quick answers
What is Common Lomatium?
Common Lomatium, scientifically known as Lomatium utriculatum, is a perennial forb or herb found in the wild across British Columbia, California, Oregon, and Washington. This plant thrives in various habitats, including dry to moist areas with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Common Lomatium thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is adaptable to both dry and moist conditions but generally requires less frequent watering once established. This perennial plant is hardy in temperate regions and native to British Columbia, California, Oregon, and Washington. For propagation, gardeners may use seeds or division of mature plants. Harvest edible parts such as leaves, roots, and shoots during the growing season.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
For first-time growers
How to grow Common Lomatium for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Common Lomatium in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Common Lomatium seeds or young plants, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that's light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Ensure good sunlight exposure.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in the garden bed. For transplants, space them about 6-8 inches apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist until germination occurs. Water sparingly after that to avoid overwatering.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water only when the soil is dry, and mulch around plants to retain moisture. Fertilize lightly if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and shoots in late winter to encourage new growth. Avoid harvesting roots until after the plant has matured.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to mulch, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRootShoots
Edible uses: The Common Lomatium is edible and can be consumed in various forms. Its leaves, shoots, and roots are all usable. The young shoots and leaves are often eaten raw in salads or used as a potherb. Roots can also be consumed fresh but are more commonly dried for later use.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 4 native
Broader regions
native:California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · e069a7b2-4adc-4ce3-a15e-57cd3647b7bb
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