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Carrot-Leaf Desert-Parsley

Lomatium foeniculaceum

Last reviewed: June 2026

Carrot-Leaf Desert-Parsley (Lomatium foeniculaceum)
Photo: (c) Jim Morefield, some rights reserved (CC BY)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun

Native to

CO, IA, KS, MO and 7 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles, flies

Lomatium foeniculaceum is a compact native perennial with feathery, fern-like foliage that forms neat clumps in sunny, dry locations. It produces clusters of small yellow flowers on umbrella-shaped heads from April through June, then goes dormant in summer heat. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in well-drained soils and requires minimal care once established.

In an HOA neighborhood

Carrot-Leaf Desert-Parsley takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Goes completely dormant in summer leaving bare spots
  • Unfamiliar appearance may be seen as weedy
  • Short bloom period followed by long dormancy

Wildlife value

The flowers attract diverse native pollinators including small native bees, beetles, and flies during the spring blooming period. Seeds provide food for birds and small wildlife.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Carrot-Leaf Desert-Parsley fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.