Pleurospermum uralense

Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae

What it is like

Pleurospermum uralense is a BIENNIAL/PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 1

Where it is found

Coniferous forests, forest edges, pine forest, birch-aspen forests and felled forests, rarely in sub-alpine meadows, ravines and near swamps.

N. Europe to E. Asia.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Young leaves - cooked.

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. Some botanists consider this species to be no more than a part of P. camtschaticum. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in any moderately fertile soil in full sun. Plants are often monocarpic, living for a number of years without flowering and then dying after flowering.

Propagating it: Seed - we have no information on this species but suggest sowing the seed in spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Habit: Biennial/Perennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

P. austriacum uralense.