Flower Properties

Flower Details

Description

A biennial or short-lived perennial with finely divided foliage and flat umbels of small white flowers. Its aromatic nature and airy form make it resemble a delicate wild carrot. It grows well in dry, sunny, calcareous soils.

Distribution

Native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region; rarely cultivated but occasionally found naturalised along the coasts of southern England.

Medicinal/Other Uses

In Mediterranean herbal practice, related Seseli species have been used for digestive problems and as mild diuretics.

Edibility

Not generally used as food.

Human Toxicity

Non_Toxic

Some Seseli species contain furanocoumarins that can make skin more sensitive to sunlight. Caution advised during handling.

Pet Toxicity

Potentially mildly toxic if ingested in large quantities; may cause stomach upset.

Active Compounds

Essential oils containing terpenes and coumarins.

Quality Issue

Plant is informative but appears sprawling/flopped rather than showing its normal upright form clearly