Yellow Hedysarum vs Cow Parsnip

Yellow Hedysarum is a native perennial wildflower recognized for its clusters of pale yellow to creamy-white, pea-like blooms. Flowering from late spring into summer, it adds subtle colour to grasslands, roadsides, and open woods while attracting a variety of pollinators, especially bumblebees.

As a nitrogen-fixing plant, Yellow Hedysarum enriches soils and supports the growth of surrounding vegetation. Its deep taproot and extensive root system make it drought-tolerant and effective at stabilizing soil. Grizzly bears are known to dig up and eat the nutritious taproot. Its resilience and ecological value make it well-suited for restoration, naturalization, pollinator gardens, and erosion control projects.

Cow Parsnip is a native perennial wildflower known for its tall growth, very large leaves, and broad clusters of white flowers. The abundant blossoms provide nectar and pollen for a wide variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Birds and small mammals feed on its seeds, while the foliage serves as a larval host for certain butterfly species.

Cow Parsnip is often among the first native perennials to establish in disturbed or open sites. It typically grows in moist meadows, along streambanks, forest edges, and roadsides. Although usually a short-lived perennial or biennial, it readily self-seeds and maintains strong populations where conditions are favorable.

Cow Parsnip is the only native Heracleum in North America and should not be confused with the highly invasive Giant Hogweed (H. mantegazzianum).

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.

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