Fernleaf Desert-Parsley
Lomatium dissectum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Lomatium dissectum is a native forb found in California, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington that blooms yellow flowers from March through May. This drought-tolerant wildflower attracts bees and butterflies in full sun conditions.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Fernleaf Desert-Parsley as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
CA, ID, OR, WA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Fernleaf biscuitroot is a native wildflower with deeply divided, fern-like foliage and clusters of small yellow flowers in spring. This drought-tolerant perennial grows from a deep taproot and goes dormant in summer heat, disappearing until the following spring.
Growing Fernleaf Desert-Parsley
Grow Fernleaf Desert-Parsley in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 48 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Fernleaf 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.
- Completely disappears in summer leaving bare ground
- Can appear weedy or unkempt to conventional gardeners
- Highly variable size makes planning difficult
Wildlife value
The spring flowers provide early nectar for native bees and butterflies when few other plants are blooming. Seeds also feed small birds and mammals.
Common questions
- When does Lomatium dissectum bloom?
- Fernleaf Desert-Parsley blooms from March through May, producing clusters of small yellow flowers that attract pollinators.
- Where is Lomatium dissectum native?
- This species is native to the western United States, specifically California, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.
- What pollinators visit Fernleaf Desert-Parsley?
- Lomatium dissectum attracts various bees and butterflies during its spring blooming period.
- What growing conditions does Lomatium dissectum prefer?
- This native forb thrives in full sun with low water requirements, making it well-suited for dry, sunny locations.
- Is Fernleaf Desert-Parsley toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Fernleaf Desert-Parsley as toxic to livestock.
- Is Fernleaf Desert-Parsley HOA-friendly?
- Fernleaf Desert-Parsley takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Fernleaf Desert-Parsley? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz