Parsnip
Pastinaca sativa
Traits
Varieties We Carry
StandardPastinaca sativa
Sizes & Pricing
Seed PackFrom$3.39
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 25.
LightFull Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size12-18 in foliage; 3-5 ft when flowering × 6-9 in
About Parsnip
Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) is a cool-season biennial root vegetable grown for its sweet, creamy-white taproot. In NE Florida (zone 9b) it is planted October–November for a winter harvest, as the heat of spring and summer prevents successful production. Caution: the sap of wild forms causes phytophotodermatitis; cultivated types are far lower risk. Starting at $3.39.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Summer
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Herbaceous biennial
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained, Deep
Care essentials
Light
Parsnip requires full sun — at least 6 hours per day. In NE Florida it is grown as a cool-season winter crop (October–February); Florida's long summers are too hot for parsnip.
Water
Keep soil evenly moist during the growing period. Inconsistent moisture causes forked or cracked roots. Parsnip is grown in Florida only in winter and benefits from drip or soaker-hose irrigation to maintain steady soil moisture without wetting foliage.
Soil & Fertilizer
Parsnip needs deep (12+ inches), loose, stone-free, well-drained sandy loam for straight root development. Amend NE Florida sandy soil with compost before planting; incorporate a balanced vegetable fertilizer at planting and side-dress with low-nitrogen fertilizer once leaves are established.
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Common questions
Is Parsnip a good plant for St. Augustine?
Parsnip is a plant for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 12-18 in foliage; 3-5 ft when flowering × 6-9 in.