Smyrnium perfoliatum

Smyrnium perfoliatum, known as the perfoliate hound's-tongue, is a biennial plant native to regions across southeastern Europe and northern Africa, including Albania, Bulgaria, Cyprus, and parts of France. This plant thrives in moist, light to heavy soil with a pH between 7.5 and 8, making it adaptable but preferring slightly alkaline conditions. Its distinctive perfoliate leaves, which wrap around the stem, give it its common name. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and is found in various habitats within its native range, including Albania, Algeria, Bulgaria, and parts of France, Greece, and Italy. Smyrnium perfoliatum is edible and its parts—flowers, leaves, shoots, and stems—are used for culinary purposes. It is commonly used as a condiment and can add flavor to various dishes. The plant can be found within its native range, which includes Albania, Bulgaria, Cyprus, and parts of France, Greece, and Italy. Additionally, it has been introduced to regions such as Alabama, Austria, Denmark, Germany, Great Britain, and Sweden. For cultivation, Smyrnium perfoliatum thrives in light to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions with zones 5-9. The plant can be propagated through seeds, which should be sown directly into the garden bed after the last frost. Harvest edible parts such as flowers, leaves, shoots, and stems for use in culinary applications.