Heracleum Sphondylium

Description

Heracleum sphondylium, is a robust, herbaceous biennial or perennial native to Europe and Asia. It features large, deeply lobed green leaves and produces flat-topped umbels of tiny white flowers from late spring to mid-summer. These flowers are a magnet for pollinators, attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. The plant’s towering structure makes it an imposing presence in naturalized areas, meadows, and wildlife gardens. Thriving in full sun to partial shade and moist, fertile soils, Heracleum sphondylium is a hardy plant that tolerates a variety of growing conditions, including poor soils and damp areas. While valuable for supporting biodiversity, caution is needed as its sap can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Gloves and protective clothing are recommended when handling.

Sowing Advice

Sow seeds in autumn or stratify them for spring sowing. To stratify, store seeds in damp sand at 4°C (39°F) for 2–3 months. Sow seeds directly outdoors or in trays, lightly covering them with soil. Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs in 2–4 weeks. Thin seedlings or transplant them to their final location, spacing plants 50–100 cm apart. Choose a spot where their height and spread will not overshadow smaller plants.

Key Facts