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prostrate marshwort

Scientific Name: Apium prostratum

Family: Apiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Biennial, Perennial

Other Names:

       

Apium prostratum - Prostrate Marshwort

Apium prostratum, commonly known as prostrate marshwort, is a perennial forb/herb belonging to the genus Apium.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant has "prostrate" growth, meaning it creeps along the ground and roots at the nodes which may make it more accessible to pets.

Considerations for Children

  • Skin contact with the sap is said to cause photo-sensitivity and/or dermatitis in some individuals.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Apium prostratum Labill.
  • Common Names: Prostrate marshwort, Sea parsley, Sea celery, Australian celery
  • Kingdom: Plantae (plants)
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species
  • Synonyms: Mentions *Apium graveolens var. rapaceum*, *Apium nodiflorum*, and *Apium repens* in connection with marshwort.
  • Family: Apiaceae (implied from mentions of umbelliferous plants in the same context)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Found in Australia, New Zealand, and southern South America.
  • Described as a creeping aquatic perennial plant.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Perennial growing to 0.6 m (2 ft).
  • Characterized by its prostrate (creeping) growth habit.
  • Roots at nodes along its slender stems.
  • Stems can be submerged or floating.
  • Submerged leaves are deeply tripinnate with a hair-like, feathery appearance.
  • Upper leaves have three-lobed or pinnate narrow leaflets.
  • Develops a bare stem, creating a thick crown, resembling a tree-like structure.
  • Flowering stems ascend.
  • Size: Medium.
  • Color: Green during the summer.

Ecological Role

  • Flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs).
  • Pollinated by flies and self-pollination.