We have been learning about the Parsley family this week. This family of plants is the most important to learn because the two deadliest plants in America belong in its ranks. The Poison Hemlock and the Water Hemlock are deadly if eaten. Water Hemlock has a hollow stalk, as do many of the parsley family members. Children have died simply by using its stalk as a straw. Also, people often mistake the poisonous members of the parsley family for wild carrots and die after eating them.
The Parsley family is identified by its often hollow stalk, flower with five petals, five stamen and compound umbels on stems radiating from a single point at the end of the stalk.
Here is Ben's drawing of the identifying characteristics:
Here are the boys drawings of the evil Parsley Guardian from Shanleya's Quest. The Guardian tried to poison Shanleya with a bowl of Water Hemlock soup. Thankfully she outsmarted him. :)
There are many friendly and edible plants within the parsley family including carrots, celery, cumin, anise, dill, fennel, parsnips and common parsley. We no longer have any of these plants growing in our yard at this time of year but we can still have fun with some from the grocery store. The plan for tomorrow includes:
Baking a carrot cake
Making Tabouleh
Having ants on a log for tea time snack
Thanks for visiting!
