Rattlesnake Weed, American wild carrot

Daucus pusillus

Physical Characteristics

Daucus pusillus is a BIENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. The seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies, beetles. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Western N. America.

Habitats

Meadow; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[46, 61, 105, 161, 257].

Medicinal Uses

Antipruritic Blood purifier Febrifuge Poultice The plant is antipruritic, blood purifier and febrifuge[257]. A decoction has been used to treat colds, itches, fevers and snakebites[257]. A poultice of the chewed plant has been applied to snakebites[257].

Known Hazards

Skin contact with the sap is said to cause photo-sensitivity and/or dermatitis in some people[218].