Bentonite Desertparsley: A Rare Gem for the Adventurous Native Plant Gardener
If you’re the type of gardener who gets excited about finding truly unique native plants, then bentonite desertparsley (Lomatium bentonitum) might just capture your imagination. This delicate perennial forb is one of nature’s specialists, thriving in some of the most challenging growing conditions you can imagine.
What Makes Bentonite Desertparsley Special?
Bentonite desertparsley is a member of the carrot family, sporting the characteristic umbrella-shaped flower clusters (called umbels) that make these plants so distinctive. In late spring and early summer, it produces clusters of tiny yellow flowers that create a delicate, lacy appearance above finely divided, ferny foliage. While it may not be the showiest plant in your garden, it has a subtle beauty that native plant enthusiasts absolutely adore.
As a perennial forb, this plant lacks the woody stems of shrubs and trees, instead dying back to ground level each winter and emerging fresh each spring. It’s perfectly adapted to survive harsh conditions that would challenge many other garden plants.
Where Does It Come From?
This fascinating plant is native to very specific areas in Idaho and Oregon, where it has adapted to grow in clay and bentonite soils that most plants find inhospitable. Its restricted range makes it a true regional treasure.
Important Conservation Note
Here’s something crucial every gardener needs to know: bentonite desertparsley has a conservation status of S1S2, meaning it’s considered rare and potentially imperiled in its native range. This doesn’t mean you can’t grow it, but it does mean you should be extra thoughtful about how you source your plants. Always purchase from reputable native plant nurseries that propagate their own stock rather than collecting from wild populations.
Growing Bentonite Desertparsley Successfully
If you’re up for the challenge, this unique native can make a wonderful addition to specialized garden settings. Here’s what you need to know:
Ideal Growing Conditions
- Soil: Well-draining clay or rocky soils; avoid rich, organic soils
- Sun exposure: Full sun
- Water needs: Very drought tolerant once established; avoid overwatering
- Climate: Hardy in USDA zones 4-8
Perfect Garden Settings
Bentonite desertparsley isn’t your typical backyard perennial. It shines in:
- Rock gardens with excellent drainage
- Native plant collections
- Xeriscaping projects
- Specialty gardens focused on rare or unusual plants
Planting and Care Tips
The key to success with this plant is mimicking its natural habitat as closely as possible. Plant it in a location with exceptional drainage – if water pools after rain, choose a different spot. Once established, it requires very little care beyond occasional weeding around the base.
Avoid the temptation to pamper this plant with rich soil amendments or regular watering. Remember, it’s adapted to some pretty tough conditions, and too much kindness can actually harm it.
Benefits for Pollinators and Wildlife
Like many members of the carrot family, bentonite desertparsley is excellent for supporting small native bees and other beneficial insects. The umbrella-shaped flower clusters provide easy landing platforms and accessible nectar for a variety of pollinators, making it a valuable addition to any pollinator-friendly garden.
Should You Plant Bentonite Desertparsley?
This plant is definitely not for everyone. If you’re looking for bold colors, fast growth, or easy care, you might want to consider other native options. But if you’re fascinated by rare plants, enjoy gardening challenges, and want to support conservation efforts, bentonite desertparsley could be a rewarding addition to your collection.
Just remember to source your plants responsibly from nurseries that propagate their own stock. By growing this rare native in your garden, you’re not just adding something unique – you’re also helping preserve genetic diversity and potentially providing a seed source for future conservation efforts.
Sometimes the most rewarding garden plants are the ones that make you work a little harder and think a little differently. Bentonite desertparsley is definitely one of those plants.
