Alexanders, David North 1/2
Alexanders by David Pullinger 2/2

Alexanders Smyrnium olusatrum

Alexanders is a common rather invasive, edible, flowering plant of a green-yellow colour, which is known for its rapid growth. The Mediterranean origins of Alexanders means it struggles during long hard winters, however it is currently thriving not only close to the coast, but inland too.

Conservation status

At present the plant is appearing in ever-increasing quantities. It is very aggressive and can shade out smaller vegetation. As Alexanders is Mediterranean in origin it has been found to be affected by long hard winters. Many of the plants may also be weakened by a fungus seen as orange spots on the leaves.

Related questions & advice

Sorry, there's currently no Wildlife Questions and Advice with the specified paramaters.

Details

Did you know?

This plant originated in the Canary Isles and moved eastwards. Its earlier name meant ‘Parsley of Alexandria’ which was changed to Alexanders. It was introduced to Britain by the Romans as a food plant, as its stems, leaves and flowers are all edible (raw or cooked) and have a flavour rather like celery. The seeds have also been added to stews for extra flavour.

N.B. This plant is not poisonous but related plants with similar appearance may be extremely so.
 

How to recognise
Where to see
When to see
How to help

Whats on?

March 2024
MTWTFSS
26
27
28
29
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Share this