Water Parsley

Here's yet another member of the carrot family (Apiaceae)! This family has more than 3,700 species, with some being extremely poisonous, while others are served up daily!

The native Water Parsley (Oenanthe sarmentosa) blossom looks similar to many of the other family members, but the leaves are rather unique, and actually do resemble parsley! It prefers wetlands and marches, but can grow elsewhere. Oddly, I found these growing up at Bald Peak State Park, in a heavily shaded area that probably pools snowmelt. 6/29/2013.