Arracacha (Conium arracacha)

Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey / License

Conium arracacha: Botanical History and Overview

South American high-altitude environments historically documented the presence of Conium arracacha. This species remains an intriguing subject of study due to its taxonomic classification.

Researchers study this plant to understand the distinction between toxic hemlocks and similar-looking edible plants. It grows mainly in wild conditions along montane grasslands.

Taxonomy

  • ∟ царство Plantae
  • ∟ division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • ∟ Angiosperms
  • ∟ mesangiosperms (Core angiosperms)
  • ∟ eudicots
  • ∟ asterids
  • ∟ order Apiales
  • ∟ family Apiaceae
  • ∟ genus Conium (Hemlock)
  • ∟ species Conium arracacha (Arracacha)

Living Pulse

Powered by iNaturalist

Morphology

The morphology of this plant resembles other wild hemlocks. Its main characteristics include:

  • Finely divided foliage that is compound and triangular in outline.
  • Sturdy stems that grow erect and are branched.
  • Umbels of white flowers that bloom during the summer months.

It forms a taproot system that supports its biennial or perennial growth cycle.

Flowering season

Summer

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Name
Dec

Interesting facts

The specific epithet arracacha is shared with the edible Andean root vegetable Arracacia xanthorrhiza, reflecting historical taxonomic confusion.

  • It was described by William Jackson Hooker in historical botanical records.
  • Due to similarities in foliage, distinguishing it from non-toxic species requires careful botanical examination.

Geography of distribution

  • Colombia
  • Ecuador
  • Peru
  • Venezuela
  • Bolivia

Sources

  • Plants of the World Online (POWO)
  • World Flora Online (WFO)
  • International Plant Names Index (IPNI)

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

See also

Poison Hemlock

Poison Hemlock

Conium maculatum

Conium maculatum, commonly known as poison hemlock, is a highly toxic biennial herbaceous flowering plant …

Read more →