Classification
 Nomenclature
Scientific Name:
Melanoselinum decipiens (Schrad. & J.C.Wendl.) Hoffm.
Vernacular Name(s):
Black parsley ; Parsnip palm (NZ)
 Description

Erect biennial or perennial.  Stems up to 2 m high and 4 cm diam., woody and leafless in lower parts with distinct lf scars, with pith in centre and hollow in parts.  Stem lvs with fine hairs on rachis and midribs, otherwise glabrous, 2–3-pinnate (seedling lvs 1-pinnate);  ultimate segments ovate to lanceolate, pinnatisect or not lobed, serrate, 15–20 mm long, shortly petiolulate or sessile;  lvs of infl.-branches much reduced;  petiole sparsely to moderately hairy, striate.  Umbels up to 20 cm diam.;  rays numerous;  bracts 10–12, narrowly ovate-lanceolate, sometimes serrate, up to 5 cm long; bracteoles 7–12, lanceolate.  Fls numerous, white to purplish.  Fr. dark brown, sparsely hairy, 12–18 mm long.  

[From:  Webb et al. (1988) Flora of New Zealand. Volume 4.]

 Biostatus
Exotic
 Phenology

Flowering: Nov.–Jan.

 Bibliography
Mabberley, D.J. 2008: Mabberley's plant book, a portable dictionary of plants, their classification and uses. Edition 3. Cambridge University Press.