Nineleaf Biscuitroot

(Lomatium triternatum)

Nineleaf Biscuitroot (Lomatium triternatum)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Lomatium triternatum, commonly known as nineleaf biscuitroot, is a perennial herb native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, and sagebrush deserts in western North America, from British Columbia to California and east to Colorado. It typically grows up to 1 meter tall from a stout taproot. The leaves are pinnately divided into three leaflets, each further subdivided into narrow, linear segments, giving the plant a delicate, fern-like appearance. The inflorescence is an umbel of small, yellow flowers that bloom from April to June, forming flat-topped clusters on rays up to 4 inches long. The flowers are not particularly showy but are attractive to a variety of pollinators.

Nineleaf biscuitroot is valued for its drought tolerance and its ability to thrive in poor, rocky soils, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is also used in restoration projects to stabilize soils and promote biodiversity. In cultivation, it requires minimal water once established, prefers full sun to part shade, and well-drained soils. There are no major disease or pest issues associated with this plant, but it is not commonly found in the horticultural trade. Historically, the roots of Lomatium species were used by indigenous peoples as a food source and for medicinal purposes.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2.2-3.25 feet
  • Width: 0.75-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, grasslands, and sagebrush deserts in western North America

Other Names

Common Names: Salt and Pepper, Ternate Lomatium, Nine-Leaved Desert-Parsley, Nine-Leaved Biscuitroot, Nine-Leaved Lomatium, Ternate Desert-Parsley, Parsley Desert

Scientific Names: , Lomatium triternatum, Cogswellia latifolia, Cogswellia platyphylla, Cogswellia robustior, Cogswellia triternata, Cogswellia triternata f. lancifolia, Cogswellia triternata var. robustior, Eulophus triternatus, Ferula nuttallii

GBIF Accepted Name: