Laserpitium siler | laserwort

Lasperpitium is a genus of umbellifers that is rare in the world and unfortunately little known in the garden. Most of the twenty species occur in Central and southern Europe. Ancient Romans reportedly mixed the roots of L. gallicum with cumin to season preserved artichokes (a fun fact, not a recommendation!).

Laserpitium are attractive, tidy, long-lived plants with finely cut, fern-like foliage that gives off a spicy scent. Very easy to grow in any soil in full sun, but happiest in dry, well-drained locations. 

L. siler was used as a medicinal herb throughout the Middle Ages. Foliage takes on beautiful glaucous tones when grown in poor soil. Dried seeds heads are outstanding in the winter garden. Self-sows moderately when happy.

Zones: 4 to 7 
Family: Apiaceae
Type: Perennial
Height: 12 to 36 in.
Spread: 12 to 18 in.
Exposure: full sun to part shade
Soil Conditions: dry, well-drained, average, poor 
Bloom Time: June to July  
Bloom Color: white
Native Range: Western, central to south eastern Europe