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toothpickweed

Scientific Name: Ammi visnaga

Family: Apiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Biennial

Other Names:

       

Ammi visnaga: A Delicate Addition to Your Garden

Ammi visnaga, commonly known as Toothpick Weed, is a flowering plant appreciated for its airy and delicate appearance in borders and bouquets.

Common Names

  • Toothpick Weed
  • Toothpick Chervil
  • Toothpick Plant
  • Visnaga
  • Khella
  • False Queen Anne's Lace
  • Toothpickweed
  • Bishop's Weed

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Ammi visnaga (L.) Lam.
  • Family: Apiaceae (also known as Umbelliferae or Carrot Family)
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Synonyms:
    • Ammi dilatatum
    • Apium visnaga
    • Carum visnaga
    • Apium Visnaga
    • Daucus visnaga

Considerations for Pets and Children

  • This plant is also known as Toothpick Weed, suggesting the historical use of its dried flower parts as toothpicks. Small, dried plant parts may present a choking hazard if ingested.

Distribution and Habitat

Ammi visnaga is naturalized in Texas and other states. A specimen was also found in High Street, Hull, East Yorkshire. The species has been introduced to some locations.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Finely divided foliage gives a fresh green appearance.
  • It features charming umbels of white flowers with green undertones.
  • This plant is an annual and can thrive in full sun.
  • Prefers neutral to sandy loam soil.
  • Flowering occurs in autumn, August and July.

Ecological Role

  • Entomologist Andrew Corbett used Ammi visnaga to track the movement of beneficial insects.

Quirky Facts

  • The common name "Toothpick Weed" hints at a historical use: the dried flower stalks were once used as toothpicks.