Alexanders
Smyrnium olusatrum
GreensIN SEASONAlexanders
Smyrnium olusatrum
Coastal paths, hedgerows, roadsides, waste ground
All Identification Points
Glossy dark green leaves, divided into 3 segments
Yellow-green umbel flower clusters in early spring
Robust grooved hollow stems
Smells like celery or parsley when crushed
Seeds turn black when ripe
Harvest Notes
Young stems and leaf stalks in late winter and early spring. Roots can be harvested in autumn.
Uses
Stems can be candied, steamed like asparagus, or added to soups and stews.
Equipment Needed
Knife, container.
Storage
Use within 3 days. Stems keep better if kept upright in water.
Lookalikes
Hemlock (Conium maculatum) — DEADLY. Hemlock stems have purple spots and a mousy smell. Alexanders leaves are much glossier and smell like celery.
Relative Nutrition