Apiaceae is a family of parsley, carrot, and celery. The main identifying factor of this family is the inflorescence, the way all of the leaves/clusters of flowers are arranged on a single stem. It almost looks like a complicated entanglement of roots above g
round. This inflorescence often combine to create umbels, which are short clusters of flower stalks that grow on a single stem making them look like an open umbrella. The particular species found on campus is part of the carrot family. Its technical name is Chaerophyllum bulbosum. Although no one would think to eat it now, this species was often turned into soup during the 19th century. This edible root was cultivated in parts of Europe, but has long since been forgotten by the United States. After having learned about it, it is fascinating to see such a plant spring up on our campus. I had the great fortune of meeting the plant in the courtyard between JBWS and JBWN. I don’t think I’ll ever look at it the same way again.
Source: http://www.botany.hawaii.edu/faculty/carr/api.htm
Observation: https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/5434112