Smyrnium olusatrum
alexanders
A vigorous, semi-evergreen biennial of the umbellifer family, growing to 75-120cm high with a solid stem which becomes hollow and grooved with age. The leaves are bluntly toothed, the flat segments ternately divided. The plant bears greenish-yellow flowers in umbrella-like clusters with a pungent, myrrh-like scent
Other common names
alisandersblack lovage
see moreblack pot-herb
horse parsley
stanmarch
Thanet celery
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Neutral, Acid, AlkalineColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow Green | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Smyrnium are erect, branching biennials with broadly oblong, divided lower leaves and rounded upper leaves. In late spring and early summer they produce branched umbels of small, greenish-yellow flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Mediterranean
How to grow
Cultivation
Best grown in a free draining soil in full sun. Grows well in coastal areas
Propagation
Propagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Not required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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