Spignel-meu, Baldmoney, Bearwort, Spignel
Meum athamanticum
Family: Apiaceae
What it is like
A clump forming herb. It grows 45-60 cm high and spreads 30-45 cm wide. The leaves are finely divided and feathery. They are a rich green. The flowers are small and white to pink.
There is only one Meum species.
Where it is found
It grows in temperate places. It grows in grassland and rough rocky areas. It is often on limestone. It needs a sunny position and a well-drained soil. It suits hardiness zones 6-9.
Countries/locations it is found in
Andorra, Australia, Britain, Europe, Luxembourg, Norway, Scandinavia, Spain, Turkey, Türkiye
How it is used for food
Both the roots and leaves have a spicy taste. They are crushed and rubbed onto pork or lamb before cooking. It is also used to flavour soups, stews and vegetable dishes. The roots are cooked and eaten.
It is cultivated.
Edible parts
Roots, leaves, spice
How it is grown
It can be grown from seed or by division.
Its other names
Local names
Bjornerot, Prixel de monte