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Laserpitium spp.
laserwort
Europe, Mediterranean, North Africa, and western Asia
Overview
Laserpitium is a genus of robust perennial herbs in the carrot family (Apiaceae), with roughly 10 to 30 species distributed across Europe, the Mediterranean basin, North Africa, and western Asia. Plants grow from a thick taproot and woody crown, producing erect hollow stems 0.5-2 m (1.6-6.5 ft) tall above large, two- to three-times divided leaves with broad leaflets. The small flowers are carried in flat-topped compound umbels 8-20 cm (3-8 in) across, usually white and occasionally tinged pink, opening in summer. Each flower develops into a dry fruit with prominent longitudinal wings that aid wind dispersal. Most species grow in mountain meadows, open grassland, scrub, and woodland margins on limestone or other calcareous soils, from lowland to subalpine elevations. L. siler and L. latifolium are among the more widespread species in European mountains. Growth is clump-forming and long-lived, with deep roots that make established plants drought tolerant but slow to re-establish after transplanting. The genus tolerates cold well but is intolerant of waterlogged ground, where the crown is prone to rot. Foliage dies back to the rootstock over winter and re-emerges in spring.
Native Range
Laserpitium is native to Europe, the Mediterranean region, North Africa, and temperate western Asia, with its greatest diversity in the mountains of southern and central Europe. Species occur from lowland grassland to subalpine meadows.Suggested Uses
Grown in naturalistic plantings, gravel gardens, and meadow-style borders where its tall umbels rise above lower grasses. Suited to dry, sunny sites on limestone soils, spaced 60-90 cm (24-36 in) apart.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1'8" - 6'7"
Width/Spread1'6" - 3'
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs in summer, mainly June through August depending on elevation, with high-mountain sites blooming later. The white umbels remain in flower for several weeks and give way to winged fruits that persist into autumn.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
white to pale pinkFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight