Parsnip Facts
Parsnip Facts
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| Interesting Parsnip Facts: |
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| Parsnip develops erect, multi-branched, hollow and grooved stem that can reach 60 inches in height. |
| Parsnip develops green, pinnate leaves that consist of several pairs of lobed leaflets with toothed edges. Leaves grow in the form of rosette. |
| Parsnip produces yellow, umbrella-shaped inflorescence (it consists of numerous miniature flowers that grow from the same point). Flowers contain both types of reproductive organs (perfect). |
| Fruit of parsnip is pale brown schizocarp (type of dry fruit). It is oval in shape and equipped with wings. |
| Parsnip is usually harvested 6 months after sowing (during the first year of growth). Ideal time for the harvest is determined by the size of taproot. Parsnip of the best quality is usually 6 to 10 inches long and available from August to March in the markets around the world. |
| Edible part of the plant it large, white or creamy colored taproot. It looks like large, white-colored carrot, but it has sweeter taste (parsnip is also known as "white carrot" in Scotland). |
| Parsnip is rich source of dietary fibers, vitamin C, B1, B6, B9, K and E and minerals such as potassium, iron, calcium and copper. |
| Parsnip can be consumed fresh (in the form of salads) or as ingredient of soups, stews, casseroles and various savory dishes. |
| People that cannot consume walnuts, parsley and figs, will probably show signs of food allergy after consumption of parsnip. Typical signs of allergy are swelling of the lips and burning sensation in the throat. |
| Parsnip was used as animal fodder in the past. It still represents important source of food for Italian pigs that are used for the manufacture of Parma ham. |
| Parsnip was used as a sweetener in Europe (usually for the preparation of jams and cakes) before industrial sugar became available. It was also used for the preparation of some types of bread during the 15th and 16th century. |
| Parsnip was used in treatment of toothache and tired feet during the Middle Ages. |
| Ancient Romans believed that parsnip has aphrodisiac properties. |
| Compounds isolated from parsnip have anti-inflammatory (prevent inflammation) and anti-fungal (kill fungi) properties. They also have potential to prevent development of certain types of cancer. |
| Parsnip is biennial plant, which means that it completes its life cycle in two years. |
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