Slender celery

Cyclospermum leptophyllum

Cyclospermum leptophyllum, commonly known as American blackseed or toothache plant, is a flowering plant belonging to the Apiaceae family. Native to the southeastern United States and parts of Central America, this herbaceous annual has aromatic properties and is known for its traditional medicinal uses.

Description:

  • Habit: American blackseed is a slender, erect annual herb that typically grows to a height of 30 to 60 centimeters (12 to 24 inches). It has a branching, airy structure.

  • Leaves: The leaves are finely dissected and fern-like, with a dark green color. The leaflets are thread-like and give the plant a lacy appearance.

  • Flowers: The tiny, white flowers are arranged in umbels, which are umbrella-like clusters that radiate from a central point. Flowering typically occurs in late spring to early summer.

  • Fruits: The fruits are small, dry, and oblong, containing seeds. The seeds are dark and have earned the plant its common name "blackseed."

Identification:

Identifying Cyclospermum leptophyllum involves recognizing its key features:

  1. Fine Dissected Leaves: The finely dissected, thread-like leaves give the plant a lacy appearance.
  2. Umbel Arrangement: The white flowers are arranged in umbrella-like clusters called umbels.
  3. Slender Structure: The plant has a slender, branching structure with a height ranging from 30 to 60 centimeters.

Traditional Uses:

American blackseed has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes:

  1. Toothache Relief: The plant has a long history of use for relieving toothaches, which is reflected in one of its common names, "toothache plant."
  2. Culinary Uses: In some cultures, the leaves and young stems are used as a culinary herb to add flavor to dishes.

Cultural Significance:

While primarily recognized for its medicinal uses, American blackseed also has cultural significance in traditional medicine practices, especially among Native American communities.

Cautions:

Although the plant has been used traditionally for toothache relief, it's important to note that the consumption of any plant for medicinal purposes should be approached with caution. It's advisable to consult with healthcare professionals before using plants for medicinal reasons.

Gardening and Landscaping:

In addition to its cultural and medicinal significance, American blackseed can be cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its delicate foliage and attractive umbel-like flowers.