Large bullwort - Ammi majus (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Large bullwort

Also known as: False bishop's weed, Laceflower, False queen anne's lace

The large bullwort, a member of the carrot family, is a hermaphrodite plant with white lace-like flower clusters that florists typically use to accent bouquets. It was used as a therapeutic ointment in ancient times, circa 200 BC in Egypt. This plant's blossoms are high in nectar and pollen, attracting bees, insects, and other pollinators. It is poisonous to cats, dogs, and horses.

Scientific classification

Species

Large bullwort (Ammi majus)

Carrots, ivies and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Annual, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

80 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

35 cm to 45 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

10 cm

Flower Size

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Large bullwort

Distribution of Large bullwort

Distribution Map

Large bullwort is native to the Mediterranean region, Northeast Africa, and Southwest Asia. Its presence spans major regions, encapsulating parts of Southern Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. As an introduced species, large bullwort now thrives across various continents including Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania. It has adapted to a wide range of climates beyond its indigenous range and is also cultivated.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Waste places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Large bullwort is often found in wildflower gardens and is used to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Its upright growth habit and feathery leaves make it a good filler plant in garden borders. Large flowerheads that bloom throughout the summer and fall add appeal that lasts throughout the year. In the winter, the dried flowers attract birds.

Symbolism

Warmth, sanctuary

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Large bullwort, including the following common varieties :

Large bullwort 'Queen Anne's Lace'Large bullwort 'Graceland'

Toxicity

The large bullwort plant causes photosensitization in humans, leading to skin issues upon sun exposure. It is moderately poisonous to cats and toxic to dogs, causing symptoms from skin irritation to severe gastrointestinal problems upon ingestion or contact. All parts of the plant are hazardous.

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Weed Control

Large bullwort is native to northern Africa, southern Europe, and western Asia. It has been introduced to Oceania and the Americas, mainly through cultivation as a garden ornamental. It is regarded as weedy in crops, pastures, and disturbed areas but is not officially defined as invasive at the state or federal level within the United States. It grows quickly, has a long growing season, and readily self-seeds. It is somewhat toxic to livestock. In cases where large bullwort is considered weedy, it can be controlled by herbicides and does not tolerate disturbance to its roots.

How to Control It

The optimal time to control large bullwort is before it sets seed, usually in late spring to early summer. Removal of large bullwort should be carried out before the plants mature and disperse seeds.

Hand pulling: Use gloves and grasp large bullwort firmly at the base, then pull gently to remove the entire root system. Perform this action after rain when the soil is moist to make pulling easier.
Mulching: Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around existing plants to suppress the growth of large bullwort by limiting light and space for seed germination.
Mowing: Regularly mow the area where large bullwort is growing to prevent it from reaching maturity and producing seeds. Adjust the mower to a low setting to cut the plants down effectively.
Dense planting: Cultivate other plants densely in the area to outcompete large bullwort for resources such as sunlight, water, and nutrients, thereby limiting its spread.
Biological control: Introduce natural predators or diseases specific to large bullwort that can help in controlling its population without affecting other plants.

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Quickly Identify Large bullwort

Finely divided, feathery leaves resembling carrot family

Tall growth form up to 3 feet (90 cm) in height

Lacey umbels of tiny white flowers in flat-topped clusters

Attracts various pollinators during peak growth

Sensitive to root disturbance; best sown directly in permanent location

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Care Guide for Large bullwort

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Large bullwort prefers dry, low-humidity environments akin to its Mediterranean origins, demonstrating drought tolerance. It requires weekly watering and is best grown outdoors, where cooler growing season temperatures can further decrease its watering needs.

Fertilize: Fertilize large bullwort with balanced nutrition during growth and high nitrogen pre-flowering, applying monthly at recommended rates and reducing in winter. Avoid overfertilization to prevent root burn. Ensure proper watering before and after application. Adjust seasonal feeding and follow label instructions for optimal results.

Pruning: Large bullwort displays delicate white umbels with fern-like leaves. Prune in early to late spring to remove damaged stems and enhance airflow. Light pruning promotes healthy growth and blooms, adjusting techniques based on the plant's vigor for optimal outcomes.

Propagation: The best propagation method for large bullwort is sowing in Spring. It's an easy process, indicated by healthy seedling growth. Maintain even moisture and warm temperatures to ensure optimal results.

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Images of Large bullwort

Distribution of Large bullwort

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Weed Control

Quickly Identify Large bullwort

Care Guide for Large bullwort

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