Fernleaf Biscuitroot

Fernleaf biscuitroot is a robust perennial in the carrot family, known for its large, intricately divided leaves and tall umbel (umbrella-shaped) clusters of yellow to dark purple flowers. It grows in dry, rocky slopes, sagebrush steppe, and open montane forests across western North America, where it is well adapted to drought and nutrient-poor soils. The plant’s thick taproot allows it to persist through harsh conditions, and it plays a meaningful role in early-season forage for native pollinators. Its striking foliage and substantial size make it a visually prominent component of arid and semi-arid native plant communities. Also called desert parsley, the plants have traditionally been used for food and medicine.