Melanoselinum decipiens is mostly known by its common name, black parsley, which refers to its dark-coloured seed heads.
This large-leaved plant has almost a tropical look due to its large pinnate leaves that can reach about 1m in length and are slightly pendulous, giving the plant a very graceful appearance. During spring and summer the leaves are produced one after another from a thick strong stem.
The flowers also have the wow factor, but unfortunately they are a sign that the end is near.
Melanoselinum decipiens is a monocarpic plant, which means once the plant has flowered and set seed it will die.
The whole life cycle can take anywhere from five to 15 years.
• Produces huge umbels of mauve flowers in late spring and summer.
• Seed can be collected after flowering and propagated to start over again. It is very easy to grow from seed.
• Likes good fertile soil, good drainage, and can be grown in light shade or areas with reasonable sun. Shelter from exposed windy sites and hard frosts is recommended.
• Other common names include tree angelica, non-stinging hogweed, and parsnip palm.
• Native to the island of Madeira off the coast of Portugal.
• See it at Dunedin Botanic Garden at the playground end of the Clive Lister Garden. It is planted in groups of 3 to 5 plants.
• Stephen Bishop is curator of the Clive Lister Garden at Dunedin Botanic Garden.
