Wild Parsnip
Pastinaca sativa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
24"–60" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
KY
Pollinators
bees, beetles, wasps, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Wild parsnip is a tall biennial herb that produces clusters of small yellow flowers in summer. This plant can cause severe skin burns when touched, making it unsuitable for most residential landscapes.
In an HOA neighborhood
Wild Parsnip takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
- Causes severe skin burns and blistering when touched
- Tall weedy appearance
- Safety liability for neighborhoods
Wildlife value
The flowers attract various pollinators including bees, beetles, wasps, and flies during its summer blooming period.
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 Wild Parsnip fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.