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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Wild Parsnip need?
- Wild Parsnip grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Wild Parsnip bloom?
- Wild Parsnip blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Wild Parsnip native?
- Wild Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) is native to KY, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Wild Parsnip attract?
- Wild Parsnip draws bees, beetles, wasps, and flies.
- Is Wild Parsnip HOA-friendly?
- Wild Parsnip 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 Wild Parsnip? 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