Can I eat wild parsnip?
Quick Answer
Yes, but with caution.
Wild parsnip is edible and can be quite tasty, but it’s important to handle it carefully as the plant’s sap can cause skin irritation and severe burns.
What Is It?
Wild parsnip, also known as Pastinaca sativa, is a plant native to Eurasia. It’s related to carrots, parsley, and celery and has a sweet, earthy flavor.
Historical Context
Wild parsnip has been consumed for centuries and was particularly popular in Europe before the potato was introduced. It was brought to North America by European settlers and has since become naturalized.
How to Tell
Wild parsnip is characterized by its yellow flowers, grooved stems, and long, tapered root. It typically grows in sunny areas such as fields and roadsides.
Why It Can Be Risky
While wild parsnip is edible, it does come with some risks.
- The plant’s sap contains chemicals that can cause phytophotodermatitis, a skin reaction that leads to blisters and burns when exposed to sunlight.
- Mistaking wild parsnip for similar-looking poisonous plants, such as water hemlock, is another risk.
Safe Method?
To safely eat wild parsnip, wear protective clothing when harvesting to avoid skin contact with the sap. The root can be cooked and eaten like a regular parsnip, but avoid eating the leaves, stems, and flowers.
Safe Alternatives
If you’re wary of wild parsnip, consider cultivated parsnip or other root vegetables like carrots or turnips as alternatives.
Storage Tips
Store wild parsnip roots in a cool, dark place. They can also be blanched and frozen for longer storage.
Preparation Tips
Wild parsnip roots can be roasted, boiled, or mashed. They have a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs well with herbs like rosemary and thyme.