Woollyhead Parsnip
Sphenosciadium capitellatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Woollyhead Parsnip is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
OR
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Woollyhead parsnip is a medium-sized native perennial with clusters of small white flowers that bloom through summer. This plant grows in a compact clump and provides consistent garden structure with its sturdy stems and attractive flower heads.
In an HOA neighborhood
Woollyhead Parsnip 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.
- Parsnip name creates confusion with weedy plants
- Unknown leaf retention makes winter appearance unpredictable
- Umbel flowers may appear weedy to untrained eye
Wildlife value
The umbrella-shaped flower clusters attract a diverse range of pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beneficial flies during its long summer bloom 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.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Woollyhead Parsnip and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.