Barestem Desert Parsley
Hul’q’umi’num: q’uxmin
SENĆOŦEN: KEXMIN
Diitiidʔaaʔtx̣: ʔaʔayxwqwsiʔ
Latin: Lomatium nudicaule
Description: Also known as Indian Celery, Indian Consumption Plant, or Barestem Biscuitroot, this plant is a member of the carrot family. Stems grow up to 70 cm tall and feature a powdery bluish-green coating.
The leaves are long, oval, and pointed, with teeth often extending toward the base.
Tiny yellow flowers bloom in open, umbrella-like clusters spreading outward from unequal stalks.
The fruits are 1 cm long, flattened ovals with a waxy texture.
Harvest and Sustainability: They are found in dry, open sites, grassy bluffs, or rocky slopes with very sparse trees. The harvest season runs from late summer to early fall.
Uses: The seeds are used to make tea to treat sore throats, common colds, and bronchitis. With their strong celery flavour, the seeds can also be used to season stews or mixed with tobacco for smoking.
The young leaves, which are rich in vitamin C, can be eaten raw or cooked as a spring vegetable.
