Polytaenia nuttallii, also known as Nuttall's Prairie Parsley, is a large plant with triangular leaves and greenish-yellow flowers that grows in the Midwest states. Polytaenia nuttallii is registered as a endangered or threatened species in four states: Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana and Tennessee. The most widely recognized edible use of Polytaenia nuttallii is to make tea.
Edible Uses of Polytaenia Nuttallii
Polytaenia nuttallii is not widely known for its edible uses. However, in the past, Native Americans, such as the Mesquakies, would use the seeds to make a tea to treat diarrhea. Polytaenia nuttalli may also be used as a substitute for dill. Polytaenia nuttallii seeds are available for purchase from Native American Seed.
Consumption of Polytaenia Nuttallii by Animals and Other Wildlife
Polytaenia nuttallii is a member of the carrot and parsley family. While cattle generally avoid eating members of this family, they make an exception for Polytaenia nuttallii. Polytaenia nuttallii plants also benefit wildlife by producing butterfly nectar. As a result, butterflies will often be attracted to the plants.
Recognize Polytaenia Nuttalli
Polytaenia nuttalli is usually about 2 feet high, with 1 to 3 inch long leaves. The plant has small greenish-yellow flowers that grow in umbel-like clusters. The plant blooms during June and July and is generally found growing in prairies with rocky limestone soil. Exercise caution before consuming what you believe to be . The hemlock plant, which is also a member of the parsley family and very poisonous, can resemble Polytaenia nuttallii.
Herbal Uses of Parsley Generally
As Polytaenia nuttallii is a member of the parsley family, it may share many of the same qualities as other parsley plants. In general, parsley leaves are known to help stimulate the appetite and aid in digestion. Tea can be made from the leaves, roots or seeds of parsley plants to cleanse the blood, kidneys and bladder. Tea made from parsley leaves is the weakest, while tea made from the seeds is the strongest. The tea is prepared by adding roots, leaves or seeds to water, bringing the water to a boil and then letting steep for 15 minutes. Oil can also be derived from parsley seeds but is extremely potent and should be used with caution.
Tags: Polytaenia nuttallii, made from, parsley family, Polytaenia nuttallii, Edible Uses