Bluebunch Wheatgrass vs Cow Parsnip - TreeTime.ca

Bluebunch Wheatgrass vs Cow Parsnip

Pseudoroegneria spicata

Heracleum maximum

CUSTOM GROW

CUSTOM GROW

Bluebunch Wheatgrass
Cow Parsnip

Bluebunch Wheatgrass is a native perennial bunchgrass common across prairies, foothills, and open woodlands. It has a long life span, unlike many other grasses.
This grass competes well with invasive species, has extensive root systems and is drought tolerant. It provides forage for deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and is extremely palatable by livestock. Its seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals, while its dense clumps offer nesting and shelter.

Cow Parsnip is a native perennial plant that grows tall with very large leaves and broad clusters of white flowers. It grows quickly, providing quick cover in disturbed areas.
Its flowers are large and plentiful, providing nectar and pollen for bees, flies, and butterflies. Its seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals. The young shoots of the plant are edible, but care must be taken as the sap of this plant can cause skin irritation (see below).
Note: The sap of the Cow Parsnip can cause phytodermatitis when exposed to ultraviolet light (sunlight). This can cause rashes or even burns. Care should be taken if pruning or handling this plant.

Bluebunch Wheatgrass Quick Facts

Cow Parsnip Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 2a
Height: 0.6 m (2.0 ft)
Height: 1.8 m (6 ft)
Spread: 0.5 m (1.5 ft)
Spread: 1.2 m (4 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: fast
Life span: short
Life span: short
Growth form: upright, clump-forming
Growth form: upright
Spreading: tillering - high, seeds - medium
Spreading: seeds - low


Toxicity: sap causes skin irritation
Foliage: very large, palmate leaves
Flowers: large clusters of white flowers
Bloom time: spring to early summer
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: AB, BC, SK, YT
Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, YT, NT, PE
Other Names: american cow parsnip, common cow parsnip