Shepherd's Needle
Scandix pecten-veneris
Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae
What it is like
Scandix pecten-veneris is a ANNUAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). It is in flower from April to July. 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: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.5
Where it is found
A weed of arable land, avoiding acid soils and shady positions.
Europe, including Britain, south and east from Sweden to the Mediterranean and western Himalayas.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Young stem tops - raw or cooked. Used in salads or as a pot-herb, they are much esteemed.
Stem: this often intergrades into leaves.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
See the plants native habitat for ideas on its cultivation needs.
Propagating it: Seed - sow in situ in spring or late summer.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist