Barestem biscuitroot (Lomatium nudicaule, Contr. U.S. Natl. Herb. 7: 238 (1900))

Family: Apiaceae

Author: (Nutt.) J.M.Coult. & Rose

Bibliography: Contr. U.S. Natl. Herb. 7: 238 (1900)

Year: 1900

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Lomatium

Vegetable: False

Observations: W. Canada to W. U.S.A.

Description

Barestem biscuitroot, scientifically known as Lomatium nudicaule, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Apiaceae family. This plant is native to the western regions of Canada and the United States, thriving in diverse habitats including dry, open woodlands and rocky slopes.

The most distinguishing feature of the Barestem biscuitroot is its almost leafless stems, which contribute to its common name. Those stems rise vertically, often bare of foliage, creating a stark yet elegant appearance. The leaves that do exist are generally located at the base of the plant and are finely divided, almost fern-like in structure, contributing to the delicate visual appeal of the species.

Flowering typically occurs in the spring and early summer months, revealing umbels of small, yellow flowers. These flowers are characteristic of the Apiaceae family, arranged in a structure akin to a parasol, attracting a range of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The resulting fruit is a schizocarp, splitting into two mericarps upon maturation, which aids in seed dispersal and subsequent propagation of the species.

Lomatium nudicaule has historical significance as well. Indigenous peoples of North America have utilized this plant for various purposes, including culinary and medicinal applications. The roots were often harvested as a food source, while different parts of the plant were used in traditional medicine to treat ailments such as respiratory issues and infections.

This plant’s survival in its native habitat showcases its adaptability and resilience. Despite the environmental pressures, Barestem biscuitroot remains a vital part of its ecosystem, contributing to biodiversity and serving as a resource for both wildlife and humans.

First described in the early 20th century, this species has been noted in botanical literature since its inclusion in the Contributions from the United States National Herbarium in 1900 by J.M. Coulter and Rose, based on initial observations by Nuttall. Their work has provided a comprehensive understanding of the plant’s characteristics and its place within the Apiaceae family.

Overall, the Barestem biscuitroot is an intriguing example of nature’s adaptability, beauty, and utility. Its presence in the wild landscapes of western Canada and the United States continues to inspire botanists and nature enthusiasts alike.

Common Names

Eng: barestem biscuitroot, naked-stem lomatium, pestle lomatium, bare-stemmed desert-parsley, indian consumption plant, bare-stemmed biscuitroot, naked-stemmed desert-parsley, naked-stemmed lomatium, pestle parsnip
Fra: lomatium à tige nue
En: Barestem biscuitroot, Naked-stem Desert-parsley, Pestle Lomatium, Naked-stem lomatium, Bare-stemmed desert-parsley, Indian consumption plant, Bare-stemmed biscuitroot, Naked-stemmed desert-parsley, Naked-stemmed lomatium, Pestle parsnip
Fr: Lomatium à tige nue

Synonyms

• Leptotaenia dissecta (A.Gray)
• Ferula nudicaulis (Nutt.)
• Peucedanum robustum (Jeps.)
• Pastinaca nudicaulis ((Nutt.) Spreng.)
• Smyrnium nudicaule (Pursh)

Distribution

• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Nevada (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Flower

Taken Jun 5, 2020 by Ethan Greer (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 30, 2019 by Jason Shattuck (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 1, 2021 by Leona Kasama (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3034279)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:143140-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Lomatium nudicaule (Pursh) J.M. Coult. & Rose)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth