Widewing Springparsley (Cymopterus purpurescens)

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun

Cultivation

We have almost no information on the needs of this species and do not know if it is hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it could outdoors at least in the milder parts of the country. We suggest growing it in a sunny position in a well-drained light or medium soil[K].

Propagation

Seed - we have no information on this species but suggest sowing the seed in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe if this is possible. Sow stored seed as early in the year as possible in a greenhouse. As soon as they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in spring or autumn might be possible.

Edible uses

Root - cooked. Sweeter than a parsnip.

Habitat

Rocky limestone hills, 1300 - 2100 metres in California.

Native range

South-western N. America - California to Idaho, Utah and Arizona.