Masterwort Peucedanum ostruthium 'Daphnis' (v)
ABOUT
The plant in question, commonly known as Masterwort 'Daphnis', is an herbaceous perennial that is known for its ornamental qualities, albeit the size of the plant is not to be detailed. It has a lush, attractive appearance with a basal clump of deeply divided dark green leaves that often have an interesting texture. Above this foliage, during its blooming period, one can find unique umbels of tiny flowers that are very appealing. These flowers are usually a shade of pink or white and are clustered together in a dome or umbrella-like shape, which is a characteristic look for plants in this family. The blooms can also be surrounded by a ruff of papery bracts, adding to the ornamental appeal of the plant. The combination of its lacy leaves and distinctive flower heads gives it a delicate and intricate aesthetic that can add a touch of elegance to any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Masterwort
Common names
Peucedanum ostruthium, Imperatoria ostruthium.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant Peucedanum ostruthium 'Daphnis' is more commonly known as Masterwort. Masterwort is not typically regarded as a highly toxic plant to humans. However, as with many plants, it may cause adverse reactions in some individuals, especially if ingested in large quantities or if the person has specific sensitivities or allergies. There might be a risk of mild stomach upset or skin irritation upon contact with the sap. If ingested, symptoms could potentially include nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. In case of ingestion, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
To pets
Masterwort has no well-documented significant toxicity to pets. However, it is generally recommended to prevent pets from ingesting plants, as they may experience digestive upset or an allergic reaction if they consume parts of this plant. If a pet does ingest Masterwort and shows symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of distress, it is best to consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Use: Its leaves can be used as a seasoning, imparting a delicate flavor to a variety of dishes.
- Ornamental Value: Peucedanum ostruthium 'Daphnis', commonly known as Masterwort, has attractive foliage and flower umbels that enhance the visual appeal of gardens.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of Masterwort are known to attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which are important for pollination.
- Companion Planting: Masterwort can be used in companion planting to help deter certain pests from more vulnerable plants.
- Low Maintenance: Masterwort is considered to be a low-maintenance plant, making it suitable for gardeners of all levels of experience.
- Cold Tolerance: This plant is quite hardy and can tolerate cold temperatures, which makes it suitable for cooler climates.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Peucedanum ostruthium, also known as Masterwort, has been traditionally used for its potential anti-inflammatory properties.
- Diuretic: It is sometimes used as a diuretic, helping increase the passing of urine.
- Expectorant: Masterwort has expectorant properties that may help in clearing the respiratory tract.
- Carminative: The plant may have carminative effects, which can help relieve flatulence.
- Antiseptic: Historically, Masterwort was used for its antiseptic properties, potentially helping prevent the growth of microorganisms.
- Stimulant: It has been used as a stimulant to help boost the body's functions.
- Digestive aid: Masterwort has been used to aid digestion and soothe stomach issues.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Garden ornamental: Masterwort 'Daphnis' is often used in ornamental gardens due to its attractive foliage and flowers.
- Culinary flavoring: The leaves can be used in small amounts to impart a unique aromatic flavor to soups and stews.
- Companion planting: This plant can be used in companion planting to help deter certain pests from more sensitive vegetables and herbs.
- Dyeing: The roots of the plant have been used historically to produce a natural dye for textiles.
- Floral arrangements: The flowers can be cut and used in fresh or dried floral arrangements due to their interesting structure.
- Border plant: It serves as an excellent border plant in garden design, providing structure and height.
- Wildlife habitat: The flowers of Masterwort 'Daphnis' provide nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
- Erosion control: This plant can be used on slopes and banks for erosion control due to its spreading habit.
- Ritual uses: In some cultures, plants from the genus Peucedanum have been used in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
- Photography subject: Gardeners and photographers may use Masterwort 'Daphnis' as an appealing subject for plant photography because of its distinctive look.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Masterwort is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Masterwort is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Peucedanum ostruthium, commonly known as masterwort, has been historically used in herbal medicine for its purported healing properties, symbolizing health and recovery.
- Protection: Masterwort is also believed to offer protective qualities, symbolizing safety and the warding off of negative influences.
- Strength: The robust nature of the plant, able to grow in harsh conditions, makes it a symbol of strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
- Mystery: The intricate flowers of masterwort can symbolize the unknown and the mystical, representing hidden knowledge or secrets.
WaterMasterwort 'Daphnis' prefers even moisture, so regular watering is necessary. Typically, watering once a week with approximately 1 to 1.5 gallons of water should suffice. However, during particularly dry or hot periods, frequency may need to increase to maintain consistent soil moisture. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering, which could lead to root rot. Employ a measured watering can or drip system for precision, and during the winter, reduce watering to reflect the plant's reduced growth and water requirements.
LightMasterwort 'Daphnis' thrives best in partial shade to full sun. It's essential to place this plant in a location where it will receive morning sunlight but be protected from the intense heat of the afternoon sun. An eastern or northern exposure that offers bright, indirect light for most of the day would be ideal for promoting healthy growth and bloom production.
TemperatureMasterwort 'Daphnis' is fairly cold hardy and can withstand temperatures down to around 0 degrees Fahrenheit. It grows best in temperate climates with ideal temperature ranges between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is important to protect the plant from extreme temperature fluctuations, especially sudden drops in temperature which can be damaging to the plant's health.
PruningPruning Masterwort 'Daphnis' is generally done to remove spent flowers and encourage a second bloom, as well as to maintain plant shape and health. Deadheading, or cutting off the old flower stems, should be performed after the first bloom period in late spring or early summer. Pruning back the entire plant by one-third after flowering can also help rejuvenate its foliage and potentially promote another bloom cycle. Late winter or early spring, before new growth begins, is also an acceptable time to prune for shaping.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMasterwort prefers a well-draining soil mixture that's high in organic matter; loamy or sandy soil amended with compost is ideal. This perennial herb thrives in a slightly acidic to neutral pH range, ideally between 5.5 and 7.0.
RepottingMasterwort should be repotted every 2-3 years to replenish soil nutrients and to accommodate the growth. Dividing the plant during repotting fosters healthy growth and propagation.
Humidity & MistingMasterwort is adaptable to a wide range of humidity conditions but prefers average to slightly above-average humidity levels. Avoid extremely dry environments to maintain healthy foliage.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Masterwort in bright, indirect light with good air circulation.
Outdoor
Choose a spot with partial sun and well-drained soil for Masterwort.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cyclePeucedanum ostruthium 'Daphnis', commonly known as Masterwort, begins its life cycle as a seed, which, when sown in well-drained soil and given the right conditions of light and temperature, will germinate and grow into a seedling. The seedling stage progresses as it develops true leaves and its root system expands, eventually maturing into a vegetative plant. Masterwort will enter a phase of vegetative growth, characterized by the growth of its distinctive foliage and robust stem which, depending on the variety, can take a couple of years to fully mature. It flowers in mid to late summer, producing umbels of small, white, or off-white flowers that attract a variety of pollinators, and after pollination, it will produce seeds. These seeds can be dispersed by wind or wildlife, leading to propagation and continuation of the life cycle. In the autumn, the plant will die back, with its underground parts, such as roots and rhizomes, surviving through the winter to regenerate the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Propogation: The Peucedanum ostruthium 'Daphnis', commonly known as Masterwort, is best propagated through division, which is typically done in the spring or autumn. This method involves carefully digging up the parent plant and gently separating the root clumps into smaller sections. Each section should have a portion of the root system and several shoots or buds. These divisions can then be immediately replanted into well-prepared soil, ensuring that they are placed at the same depth as they were previously growing. Care should be taken to water the new plants thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This form of propagation is effective because it maintains the characteristics of the parent plant and allows the gardener to rapidly increase their stock of Masterwort.
