Family: Apiaceae - PARSLEY FAMILY, CARROT FAMILY (Umbelliferae)
Genus: Heracleum from 'Hercules' in reference to enormous size
Species: maximum means 'largest' in reference to large leaves
aka Heracleum lanatum, Common Cow-parsnip, American Cow-parsnip. The alternative species name refers to 'wooly' in reference to the white hairs on the stem. The singular hollow stem can grow to eight or even ten feet (3m). The leaves are also large and can be one foot long and across. Look closely for the robust plant has tiny delicate flowers which are arranged in enormous clusters on umbrella-like flower heads. Very common along streams and wet meadows below 8,000 ft. (ref. Blackwell)
Trail Notes:
Trail/Hike: Westside Road
Date: June 16, 2007
Location: along side the Westside Road within 1.0 mi. from the Longmire Road
