Osmorhiza obtusa

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in any deep moisture-retentive soil in sun or dappled shade. Well suited to naturalistic plantings in a woodland or wild garden.

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, otherwise sow it in early spring. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.

Edible uses

Root - raw or cooked. At its mildest early in the season, it has a parsnip-like flavour. Seed - raw or used as a flavouring.

Habitat

Shady or partly shady areas, often on slopes and in valleys, from Alaska to California.

Native range

N. America - Newfoundland and Labrador to New Brunswick and Quebec, south to California and Arizona.