Fernleaf Desert-Parsley
Lomatium dissectum
Last reviewed: June 2026
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.
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.
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 Fernleaf Desert-Parsley fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.