Perfoliate Alexanders
Smyrnium perfoliatum
Family: Apiaceae
What it is like
A small plant. It grows 90 cm high and spreads 45 cm wide. It takes 2 years to complete its life cycle. The stems are angled. They are hairy at the nodes only. The lower leaves have 2-3 oval leaflets. These leaves have teeth. The upper leaves are rounded and appear to surround the stem. They are heart shaped at the base. The flowers are in yellow umbels. They are rounded and have 5-12 rays. The fruit are 3-3.5 mm long and broader than long. They are brownish-black.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows in grassy and rocky places. It suits hardiness zones 6-10.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Britain, Czech Republic, Europe, France, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Mediterranean, Portugal, Sicily, Slovenia, Spain, Tasmania, Turkey, Türkiye
How it is used for food
The blanched leafstalks are eaten raw in salads and used as a potherb. The flower buds are eaten raw and added to salads.
Edible parts
Flowers, leaves, stem
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Lisciandreddu, Ozsalata, Prerasla repušica