SafePlants

Burr Parsley (Caucalis platycarpos L.)

Considerations for Pets

• The common name "burr parsley" and references to "spiny seeds" and being "burrlike" suggest the plant may have parts that could cling to fur or cause minor irritation.

Considerations for Children

• The common name "burr parsley" and references to "spiny seeds" and being "burrlike" suggest the plant may have parts that could be prickly or cause minor discomfort.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Caucalis platycarpos L.
• Common Names: Burr Parsley, Carrot Burr Parsley, Small Burr Parsley
• Synonyms: Caucalis lappula, Caucalis daucoides, Caucalis royeni, Orlaya platycarpos
• Part of the Carrot family (Apiaceae or Umbelliferae)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the Mediterranean and Central Europe.
• Grows in clayish lime-containing soils.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• An annual plant.
• The stem is described as being mostly bare in the lower part, with many ramifications towards the top.

Traditional Uses

• Traditionally used in herbal medicine.

Ecological Role

• The text mentions that it flowers and produces fruit before the arrival of hot, dry summer months.
• The plant produces "spiny seeds".

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Contains a wide variety of antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic acids.
• A study suggested it may help stimulate immune function and prevent the spread of cancer.

Resources and Further Information

• Molecules (Journal)
• EBSCOhost
• Dave's Garden
• TERMIUM (Government of Canada's terminology and linguistic data bank)