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largeleaf springparsley
Scientific Name: Cymopterus megacephalus
Family: Apiaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Italian Parsley & Spring Parsley: A Botanical Overview
This page delves into the details of two distinct plant groups referred to as parsley, examining their characteristics, cultivation, and potential interactions within your home and garden. We will explore both Petroselinum crispum varieties (Italian Parsley and Curly Leaf Parsley) and Cymopterus species (Spring Parsley), highlighting key information for plant enthusiasts.
Considerations for Pets
- The ASPCA lists "spring parsley" (Cymopterus) as potentially toxic to dogs if consumed in large quantities. While this caution is mentioned, it is noted that curly leaf parsley is considered a safer option.
Considerations for Children
- It is mentioned that large amounts of Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) may have uterotonic effects. While safe in normal food quantities, moderation is advisable.
Naming and Taxonomy
- Italian Parsley: A common name for flat-leaf parsley (Petroselinum crispum).
- Curly Leaf Parsley: Another variety of Petroselinum crispum.
- Spring Parsley: Refers to plants in the genus Cymopterus.
Cymopterus Taxonomy:
- Family: Apiaceae
- Genus: Cymopterus Raf.
Specific Cymopterus species mentioned:
- Cymopterus megacephalus M.E. Jones (Large-leaf Spring Parsley)
- Cymopterus purpureus (Shiny Leaf Spring Parsley, Purple Spring Parsley)
- Cymopterus beckii (Featherleaf Springparsley)
- Cymopterus acaulis fendleri (Fendler Spring Parsley)
Synonyms for Cymopterus megacephalus:
- Cameron water-parsley
- Largeleaf springparsley
Cultivation and Growth Habits
- Flat Leaf Parsley: Plant seeds 3 to 4 weeks before the last spring frost. It can be planted alongside colorful flowers for an attractive garden display.
- Curly Leaf Parsley: Often used as a garnish. Can be grown in the same planter as flat leaf parsley.
- Parsley is slow to germinate from seed and is best grown with bright light in rich, well-drained soil.
- Parsley is often treated as an annual and replanted each spring.
Morphological Characteristics
- Italian Parsley: Features dark green, flat leaves. Some varieties, like 'Gigante Catalogno', have large leaves. 'Giant Italian' parsley produces long-stemmed flat leaves.
- Curly Leaf Parsley: Known for its densely curled leaves. A Heritage variety exists with very tight curled leaves.
- 'Gigante Napoletano': Large, flat and aromatic leaves.
- 'Plain Leaved 2': Flat leaves with a strong flavor.
- Italian Large Leaf: Large plant with medium-dark green leaves up to 4" long.
- Cymopterus purpureus: Shiny leaves.
Ecological Interactions
- Whiteflies can infest parsley plants in large numbers.
- Parsley is a good companion plant for tomatoes.
Distribution and Habitat
- Cymopterus purpureus (Shiny Leaf Spring Parsley) can be found in Capitol Reef National Park, near Torrey, Wayne Co., Utah.
Resources
- Idaho Fish and Wildlife Information System Data and Maps is a resource for information on fish, wildlife, and plants.