Queen Anne's Lace, also known as Ammi majus or Daucus carota, is a flowering plant native to Europe and Asia, but has been naturalized in many parts of North America. It is a member of the carrot family and is often found growing in fields, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant is known for its delicate, lacy white flowers that bloom in mid-to-late summer, and its ability to grow up to 6 feet tall.
Identification Tips
Queen Anne’s Lace can be identified by its unique characteristics, including its fern-like leaves that are finely divided and lacy, and its umbels of small white flowers that are arranged in a circular pattern. The flowers are typically 1⁄8 inch in diameter and are borne on long, slender stems that are often hairy. The plant also has a taproot that is similar to a carrot, but is not edible.
Distinguishing Features
One of the key distinguishing features of Queen Anne’s Lace is its unique flower head, which is made up of many small flowers that are arranged in a circular pattern. The flower head is typically 2-4 inches in diameter and is surrounded by a ring of bracts that are often longer than the flowers themselves. The plant also has a characteristic odor that is similar to carrots, and its seeds are long and slender, with a distinctive hooked shape.
| Characteristics | Description |
|---|---|
| Leaves | Fern-like, finely divided, and lacy |
| Flowers | Small, white, and arranged in umbels |
| Stems | Long, slender, and often hairy |
| Root | Taproot, similar to a carrot |
| Odor | Similar to carrots |
| Seeds | Long, slender, and hooked |
Habitat and Distribution
Queen Anne’s Lace is native to Europe and Asia, but has been naturalized in many parts of North America, including the United States and Canada. It typically grows in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, and can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields, meadows, and along roadsides.
Cultivation and Uses
Queen Anne’s Lace is often cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens, where it is valued for its delicate, lacy flowers and its ability to attract pollinators. It is also used as a companion plant to repel pests and improve soil health. However, it is essential to note that the plant can be invasive in some areas, and can outcompete native vegetation.
Is Queen Anne’s Lace edible?
+No, Queen Anne’s Lace is not edible. While it is a member of the carrot family, its taproot is not edible and can be toxic if ingested.
Can Queen Anne’s Lace be used for medicinal purposes?
+Yes, Queen Anne’s Lace has been used in traditional medicine for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it is essential to consult with a medical professional before using the plant for medicinal purposes.
How can I control the spread of Queen Anne’s Lace in my garden?
+Queen Anne’s Lace can be controlled by removing the flowers before they go to seed, and by digging up the taproot to prevent regrowth. It is also essential to monitor the plant’s spread and to remove any seedlings that appear.
