Alexanders

Smyrnium olusatrum

Layer 4 · Herbaceous
Edible companion

Status by region

No restrictions recorded in the lists we checked.

Checked against the European Union list (Regulation 1143/2014) · Portugal's national invasive species list (Decreto-Lei 92/2019).

Information based on the cited sources, not legal advice — always confirm your local rules.

About

Robust biennial plant related to celery, formerly cultivated as a vegetable. The stems, leaves and seeds are edible and aromatic, harvested mainly in late winter and spring. In the food forest it occupies the herbaceous layer in semi-shaded areas, providing early greens and flowers that attract beneficial insects.

It can be planted now — September is one of the best months.

See which trees alexanders grows well with

We have no trees recorded with this species yet. Start from the tree on your land.

See the central trees

No account needed.

Needs

Water: Medium
Light: Partial shade
Size: Biennial herbaceous plant up to 1.5 m
Mature diameter: 0.6 m
Soils: Clay, Loam, Sandy, Limestone
Climates: Hot, dry Mediterranean, Atlantic coast

Calendar

January
February — Harvest
March — Harvest
April — Harvest
May — Harvest
June
July
August — Planting
September — Planting
October — Planting
November
December

Harvest
Planting

Medicinal use: The stalks are consumed like celery, the leaves in salads and the ground seeds as a pepper substitute, traditionally used as a digestive tonic.

Where to buy

May grow well with

Suggestions worked out from growing conditions — same soil and climate, complementary layers and functions. These are not observed guilds; treat them as a starting point to try on your own land.