Butte desertparsley (Lomatium marginatum)

Also known as: Grasstips lomatium, Gairdner's lomatium

Butte desertparsley is a resilient perennial herb adapted to thrive in rocky and well-drained soils. It features fern-like, pinnately compound leaves and small white flowers atop a tall stem. Its ability to endure arid conditions is largely due to its deep taproot system, which effectively reaches underground water sources.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Butte desertparsley

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

5-15 cm

Spread

10-20 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2-4 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Butte desertparsley

Quickly Identify Butte desertparsley

Look for finely divided, pinnate leaves resembling ferns, and small yellow flowers arranged in umbels. The plant usually grows low to the ground in rocky soils.

Scientific Classification of Butte desertparsley

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Apiales

Family

Umbellifers

Genus

Biscuitroots

Species

Butte desertparsley

Planting and Growing of Butte desertparsley

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

Once a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Butte desertparsley?

Lomatium marginatum prefers moderate watering. Aim for about 250 ml per session, ensuring the soil is moist but well-drained. The key is to avoid waterlogging while keeping the roots sufficiently hydrated.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Butte desertparsley? ›

What should I do if my Butte desertparsley is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Butte desertparsley? ›

How to save an overwatered Butte desertparsley? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Butte desertparsley?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Lomatium marginatum flourishes with six to eight hours of sunlight daily. Ideal light supports photosynthesis, enabling efficient nutrient production and strengthening plant tissues against adverse conditions.

What kind of sunlight does Lomatium marginatum prefer? ›

How can you achieve ideal lighting for Lomatium marginatum? ›

What effects does ideal lighting have on Lomatium marginatum? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Butte desertparsley?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

For optimal growth of Lomatium marginatum, it is crucial to maintain a temperature range between 60°F and 75°F. This range ensures that the plant can photosynthesize efficiently and grow steadily without being subjected to temperature stress.

What Soil is Best for Butte desertparsley?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Lomatium marginatum thrives in well-drained soil, preventing root rot and promoting healthy growth. This soil condition allows air and nutrients to reach the roots efficiently. Rich nutrients in the soil support robust growth and vibrant blooms, ensuring that the plant has the necessary resources for optimal health throughout the growing season. Soil that retains moderate moisture prevents both drying out and waterlogging, supporting consistent growth and reducing stress on the plant.

How to Fertilize Butte desertparsley?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Lomatium marginatum, a light touch with fertilizers is necessary. Use a quarter-strength liquid fertilizer every fortnight during the growing season. Don't exceed more than 1/4 teaspoon per gallon of water to avoid damaging the plant.

How to Prune Butte desertparsley?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by identifying dead or diseased branches and those that are crossing or rubbing against others. Remove these to improve air circulation and light penetration. Begin by cutting away small, weak, or spindly branches, followed by any that are dead or discolored. Make cuts at a 45-degree angle just above a bud or lateral branch. After initial pruning, step back and look at the plant's overall shape. Trim lightly to maintain its natural, bushy form but avoid cutting too much at once. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Butte desertparsley plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late spring, Early summer

Before planting, scarify and soak the seeds for 24 hours to enhance germination rates. This mimics natural processes like passing through animal digestive systems or weathering.

Choose healthy, disease-free plants and cut a 4-6 inch section just below a node. The best time to collect cuttings is in the early morning when the plant is turgid.

Plant seeds or cuttings in well-draining soil with a light covering. Keep the soil evenly moist and place them in a warm, indirect light location until roots establish.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Butte desertparsley plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Lomatium marginatum shows signs of needing repotting when there is decreased growth or roots peeping out of its current container. Opt for spring or autumn; these seasons offer optimal conditions for the plant’s recuperation post-repotting.

Select a pot only slightly larger than the current one. This encourages healthy root growth without overwhelming the plant with too much extra space. Ensure it has ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which could lead to root rot.

A well-draining gritty mix is essential for Lomatium marginatum. Such soil mimics the plant's native conditions, allowing excess water to escape and preventing root rot. It offers the right balance of moisture retention and drainage.