This post is specifically so I can convince the world (and Katarina in Sweden in particular. See her Roses and Stuff blog listed in my Virtual Relatives list.) to include if at all possible the wild carrot or Queen Anne's lace in any meadow plans they (or she) might be entertaining.
On a trip 2 years ago to Vermont, Pamela and I visited the Alburg Dunes State Park on Lake Champlain near the Canadian border. There we were treated to the most stupendous close-up display of the Queen in all her stages. It was a floral fireworks display the likes of which I had never experienced.
(Remember a click on an image brings you closer to visual bliss.)
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7 comments:
Yolanda, thanks for posting all those great shots! - Yes, I am convinced! I can well understand why it's been given a name which includes the word 'lace' - it's a very fitting name (and so is your description: 'fireworks').
/Katarina
A lovely post ... looks like our heads were on parallel lines Wednesday :)
Just remember that the wild Queen Anne's Lace (Daucus carota)is an invasive thug. It is biennial.
There is a nicer version that is tame and is an annual. Google Ammi majus then click on the word Images near the left top of screen. You should see a page full of photos of the flower.
When one of our sons married, the old mansion of the Coca-Cola family in Atlanta, GA., where the reception was held, was swathed with these lacy flowers. It was gorgeous. Last year I grew some in the wildflower meadow. I have not introduced Daucus carota into this garden. The Ammi was lovely!
Hi Barbee. Actually Ammi majus (Bishop's Weed) is a poor meadow substitute for Queen Ann's Lace. This is a quote from http://texnat.tamu.edu/cmplants/toxic/plants/bishopsweed.html the Texas Toxic Plant database web site where you can read more:
Bishop’s-weed contains a furocoumarin in all parts of the plant, but it is especially concentrated in the seed. The compound is photoactive, causing primary photosensitization in cattle, sheep and birds. All animals consuming the seed should be considered at risk. Also can be a problem when handled by humans.According to Rainyside Gardeners (rainyside.com) : Be careful handling any plants in the genus, Ammi, as the sap may bring about a skin rash or irritation that can be very serious and painful. The photoactive compounds from Ammi can cause blistering to normal skin when exposed to the sun.
I prefer the Queen's habits anyday.
Yes, I had read that, too, before I planted it.
I didn't have any problem with it. Maybe the people from the florist shop wore protective gloves; I didn't see them while they decorated. I don't wear gloves very often, only when handling stone or tree limbs.
The only problem I had when gathering for bouquets was the chiggers!
I have read the same things about the wild queen anne's lace. The most recent was here: http://www.carrotmuseum.co.uk/queen.html "Queen Anne's Lace is also considered toxic. The leaves contain furocoumarins that may cause allergic contact dermatitis from the leaves, especially when wet. Later exposure to the sun may cause mild photodermatitis. Carrot seed is also an early abortifacient, historically, sometimes used as a natural "morning after" tea." That writer also mentioned problems with it getting into hay and causing problems with cattle and horses, but sheep have no problem with it.
I think one can read all sorts of scary details about almost every plant. As far as these two, I like them both and I think it is just a matter of which one the gardener prefers. If I were trying to get quick results, I would plant both. The annual Ammi would bloom the first year, and the biennial wild one would bloom the next. Most of us do not have grazing animals to worry about, but if I did, I wouldn't plant either one.
Did you notice that she wrote "when wet". I have seen that written about Trumpet Vine, too. Whew! When I work I perspire so much I would always cause it to be wet by the time it touched my skin!
Someone wrote about the Queen Anne's Lace that it has cups and saucers: white saucers and brown cups. That is the way it looks, fun and delightful.
Hi Barbee, Went to the website http://www.carrotmuseum.co.uk/queen.html
What a great and informative page on Queen Anne's Lace. Recommend to those in love with this plant.
Queen Anne's Lace - my favorite wildflower - bar none!!!
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