Oenanthe pimpinelloides aka Corky Fruit Water Dropwort

Oenanthe pimpinelloides is a perennial in the Apiaceae family. Its common names include meadow parsley and corky-fruited water dropwort. Kew places its native range across western and southern Europe. This range extends to the Caucasus and western Israel. Plants For A Future also lists Morocco in its distribution. It grows in temperate regions and is native to Britain. The RHS records it chiefly in southern England.

The plant forms clumps and loses its leaves each year. Its upright stems reach about 3.3 feet [1 metre]. They are hollow, with grooves running along their length. The leaves have many fine divisions, giving a fern-like look. Small white flowers form loose umbels during summer. The pale blooms contrast with the finely cut leaves. The RHS gives two to five years to reach maturity. Tubers provide one way to divide and raise new plants.

In the wild, it grows in old grassland with little improvement. These sites can be dry or damp. It also grows near roads, ponds and ditches in moist spots. In gardens, choose full sun and soil with low fertility. The RHS favours alkaline soil but also lists neutral conditions. Chalk, clay and loam are all listed as suitable. Soil should drain well, though it can stay moist. A sheltered site facing south or west suits its stated needs. The RHS rates its hardiness as H5. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 7–10.

This species suits wildflower meadows and informal cottage gardens. The RHS also includes it among plants for wildlife gardens. Plants For A Future suggests meadow and bog-garden settings. Its upright form and summer umbels provide interest in these plantings. Raise new plants from seed or divide the tubers. Remove spent flower heads when you do not need seed. The RHS reports few usual pest or disease problems. Plants For A Future does not flag it as weedy.

Treat this plant as poisonous, despite reports of edible roots. The RHS warns that eating it can harm people and pets. It also calls for gloves and protective gear when handling. Plants For A Future describes starchy roots with a nut-like taste. Yet that source also records a report of poisoning. These conflicting accounts do not establish that eating it is safe. Plants For A Future lists no known medicinal or other uses.