Seseli gummiferum aka Moon Carrot

Seseli gummiferum, or moon carrot, belongs to the carrot family, Apiaceae. Its native range includes southern Crimea, the Aegean islands and Türkiye. It grows in temperate regions and is not native to Britain or Ireland. Sources differ on its life span. Kew lists it as perennial, while RHS describes a biennial. Chicago also notes that it flowers, seeds and dies in year two.

The plant starts with a low mound of finely divided leaves. Fine silver hairs cover the blue-green to grey-green foliage. RHS lists the leaves as evergreen. Their pale colour and fine texture give interest before flowers appear. In its second summer, the plant sends up thick stems. These stand upright or arch above the leaf mound. Flower stems reach about 2.6 feet [0.8 metres]. RHS gives a garden height and spread of 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. Plants reach their full size within one to two years.

Large, rounded umbels form at the tips of the stems. Each holds many small white flowers with a pink flush. Chicago describes the blooms turning mauve-pink as they age. Its listed flowering season runs from May through October. Both sources place the main flower display in summer. Insects visit the blooms, and the plant attracts butterflies. Songbirds eat its seeds. The supplied sources give no further details about the fruit.

Grow moon carrot in full sun and soil that drains well. Chicago also lists partial shade as suitable. RHS recommends neutral to alkaline soil, including chalk, loam or sand. A sheltered spot facing south or west suits its guidance. The plant tolerates drought and dry soil. RHS rates its hardiness H7, while Chicago lists USDA zones 5–9. These ratings use different systems and describe different growing regions. Seed is the listed means of propagation. RHS says the plant needs no pruning.

Moon carrot suits beds, borders, rock gardens and gravel gardens. Its upright form also works as a specimen plant. Both the foliage and flowers add interest to planting schemes. The flower stems can be cut for indoor use. Chicago lists the plant as resistant to deer. Missouri Botanical Garden reports low upkeep and no major pest or disease concerns. RHS also reports few disease problems, but warns of slugs and snails. The supplied evidence does not establish edible uses or human or pet safety.