Alexanders (Smyrnium olusatrum)

Common Names of Alexanders  Plant:
 

Alexanders, Horse Parsley, Black Lovage, Alisanders
 

Identification of Alexanders Plant:
 

Alexanders is a biennial plant belonging to the Apiaceae family, native to the Mediterranean region but naturalized in other parts of Europe and the British Isles. In its first year, it forms a rosette, and in its second year, it flowers before dying.

Key Identification Features of Alexanders Plant:
 

• Leaves: Glossy, dark green, and divided into three leaflets, resembling those of celery. The leaves are aromatic when crushed.

• Stems: Hollow, grooved, and can grow up to 2 meters tall in optimal conditions. The stems are often purplish at the base.

• Flowers: Small, yellow-green flowers arranged in umbels, similar to those of other Apiaceae family members like carrots and parsley.

• Seeds: Small, ridged, and dark brown, contained within a dry, ribbed fruit.

• Height: Typically grows 80 cm to 2 meters tall.

• Habitat: Commonly found in coastal areas, particularly on cliff tops, old ruins, and hedgerows. Often associated with ancient Roman settlements in Britain.
   

Possible Lookalikes of Alexanders Plant:
 

• Hemlock (Conium maculatum): Highly toxic and can be distinguished by its purple-spotted stems and lack of a strong aroma.

• Cow Parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris): Similar in appearance but has white flowers and a less pronounced aroma.

• Wild Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa): Has yellow flowers and a different leaf structure.
   

Meaning of the Latin Name Smyrnium olusatrum:
 

• Smyrnium: Derived from the Greek word for myrrh, possibly referring to the plant's aromatic properties.

• Olusatrum: From the Latin "olus," meaning vegetable or herb, and "atrum," meaning black, referring to the dark seeds or the plant's historical use as a potherb.
   

Foraging Season for Alexanders Plant:
 

Different parts can be harvested throughout the year:
 

• Young leaves: Late winter/early spring

• Flower buds: Spring

• Young stems: Spring

• Seeds: Late summer

• Roots: Autumn/winter (less commonly used)
   

Food Use of Alexanders Plant:
 

Alexanders has a long history of culinary use, particularly in medieval European cuisine. It has a distinctive flavor reminiscent of myrrh and celery, with hints of angelica and juniper.
 

• Young Shoots and Leaves: Can be eaten raw in salads or cooked like spinach.

• Stems: Peeled and cooked like asparagus or celery.

• Seeds: Used as a spice, similar to pepper.

• Roots: Can be cooked and eaten like parsnips.
   

Nutritional Value of Alexanders Plant:
 

Alexanders is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium. It has traditionally been used for its digestive benefits, although specific medicinal properties are not well-documented.
 

Other Uses of Alexanders Plant:
 

• Garden Plant: Often cultivated for its ornamental value and historical interest.

• Medicinal: Historically used for digestive issues and as a diuretic, though scientific evidence is limited.
   

Safety Notes for Alexanders Plant:
 

• Identification: Correct identification is crucial as it belongs to the Apiaceae family, which includes several highly toxic members like Hemlock.

• Allergies: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, particularly those allergic to other Apiaceae family members like carrots or celery.

• Contamination: Ensure plants are harvested from clean, uncontaminated areas to avoid pesticides or pollutants.
   

Harvesting Tips for Alexanders Plant:
 

• Timing: Harvest different parts according to the seasonal guide above.

• Tools: Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut stems and leaves.

• Sustainability: Harvest responsibly, leaving enough plants to ensure future populations.
   

Preparation and Storage of Alexanders Plant:
 

• Leaves and Shoots:

  • Fresh Use: Rinse thoroughly and use immediately.

  • Storage: Keep in the refrigerator in a damp paper towel or plastic bag for up to a week.

  • Preservation: Blanch and freeze for longer-term storage.

• Stems:

  • Fresh Use: Peel and cook immediately.

  • Storage: Can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

  • Preservation: Blanch and freeze for longer-term storage.
     

Additional Tips for Foragers of Alexanders Plant:
 

• Ethical Foraging: Always obtain permission to forage on private property and adhere to local regulations.

• Proper Identification: Ensure correct identification to avoid confusion with toxic lookalikes like hemlock.

• Companion Plants: Often found growing alongside other edible plants like wild garlic and nettles, making it convenient to harvest multiple plants during foraging trips.

• Historical Context: Understanding its association with Roman settlements can help locate potential foraging sites.