Seseli gummiferum
Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae
What it is like
Seseli gummiferum is a BIENNIAL/PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft). It is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to September. 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 1.2
Where it is found
Limestone cliffs below 1000 metres.
E. Europe - Aegean and the Crimea.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Gum: can be chewed as a chewing gum or can often be used as a sweetener or thickening agent in foods.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating: 1
A gum is obtained from the cut stems. No further details are given.
Gum: Gums have a wide range of uses, especially as stabilizers, emulsifiers, thickening agents, adhesives etc.
How it is grown
Succeeds in a moderately fertile well-drained soil in a sunny position. Succeeds on dry sunny banks.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Biennial/Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist