Also known as Brânca Ursului (ro) · Cow Parsnip · Eltrot
Heracleum sibiricum, a large herbaceous perennial, features impressive umbels of white flowers, growing up to 2 meters tall. It's found in meadows and open woodlands.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, but tolerates some shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, suitable for USDA zones 3-8.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed monthly with balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Contains furanocoumarins which can cause phytophotodermatitis (skin inflammation and blistering upon exposure to sunlight).
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Heracleum sibiricum prefers consistent moisture, especially during its active growth period. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering in autumn and winter when the plant is dormant or growing less actively.
Prune Heracleum sibiricum after flowering to prevent self-seeding and maintain a tidy appearance. Remove spent flower stalks and any dead or damaged foliage.
Cut back to the ground in late autumn or early spring before new growth emerges to encourage vigorous new shoots.
Heracleum sibiricum can be propagated by seed sown in autumn or early spring. Seeds may require a period of cold stratification to germinate.
Division of established clumps in early spring or autumn is also an effective method for propagation.
Repotting is generally not required for Heracleum sibiricum, as it is a perennial that can become quite large.
If container-grown, repot every 2-3 years in early spring into a larger container with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate its substantial root system.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Heracleum Sibiricum (Heracleum sibiricum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Heracleum |
| Species | Heracleum sibiricum |
Similar in genus Heracleum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
