Wild Parsnip: Understanding This Widespread Non-Native Plant
If you’ve ever wondered about those tall plants with white umbrella-shaped flowers growing along roadsides and in fields, you might be looking at wild parsnip (Pastinaca). This non-native plant has made itself quite at home across North America, and while it’s not technically native, it’s become a familiar sight in many landscapes.
What Exactly Is Wild Parsnip?
Wild parsnip is a biennial or perennial forb – basically a non-woody plant that dies back to the ground each year but regrows from its root system. As a member of the carrot family, it’s actually related to the parsnips you might find in your grocery store, though these wild cousins have gone their own way.
This European and Asian native has been introduced throughout much of North America, where it reproduces on its own and has established persistent populations. It’s what botanists call a naturalized species – not native, but not going anywhere anytime soon.
Where You’ll Find Wild Parsnip
Wild parsnip has an impressively wide distribution across North America. You can find it growing in most Canadian provinces from British Columbia to Newfoundland, and it’s established in nearly every U.S. state from coast to coast. It’s particularly common in the northern states and Canada, though it has populations as far south as Texas and as far west as California.
What Does It Look Like?
Wild parsnip can grow quite tall – often reaching 3 to 5 feet in height – with a distinctive appearance that makes it relatively easy to identify:
- Large, flat-topped clusters of small white or yellowish flowers that bloom in summer
- Deeply divided, compound leaves that can be quite large
- Thick, sturdy stems that can grow several feet tall
- An overall robust, architectural presence in the landscape
Should You Grow Wild Parsnip in Your Garden?
Here’s where things get a bit complicated. While wild parsnip isn’t necessarily harmful to ecosystems, there are some important considerations:
The Good: Wild parsnip does provide some benefits. Its flowers attract a variety of pollinators including bees, beneficial wasps, and flies. It’s also extremely easy to grow and can fill space in informal or naturalized garden areas.
The Not-So-Good: As a non-native species, it doesn’t provide the same ecological benefits as native plants. It can also be quite aggressive, self-seeding readily and potentially crowding out other plants.
Important Safety Note: Wild parsnip contains compounds that can cause skin irritation and burns when combined with sunlight. Always wear gloves and long sleeves when handling this plant.
Growing Conditions and Care
If you do decide to include wild parsnip in your landscape, it’s refreshingly low-maintenance:
- Sunlight: Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade
- Soil: Adaptable to various soil types, including poor soils
- Water: Drought tolerant once established
- Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA zones 3-9
Wild parsnip is almost too easy to grow – it self-seeds readily and can spread beyond where you originally planted it. If you choose to grow it, be prepared to manage its spread by removing seed heads before they mature.
Native Alternatives to Consider
Since wild parsnip is non-native, you might want to consider these native alternatives that provide similar benefits:
- Wild bergamot (Monarda): Native wildflower with similar pollinator appeal
- Elderflower (Sambucus nigra): Native shrub with white flower clusters
- Queen Anne’s lace (Daucus carota): Though also non-native, it’s less aggressive
- Native asters: Excellent late-season pollinator plants
The Bottom Line
Wild parsnip is one of those plants that exists in a gray area – not native, but not necessarily problematic either. If you’re drawn to its architectural form and easy-care nature, it can work in informal or naturalized garden settings. However, given its non-native status and potential for aggressive spread, many gardeners prefer to choose native alternatives that provide better ecological benefits.
Whatever you decide, remember that the best garden is one that reflects your personal style while being mindful of the local ecosystem. Whether you choose wild parsnip or a native alternative, you’ll be creating habitat and beauty in your own backyard.
