Sium suave, also known as water parsnip, is a perennial plant species belonging to the family Apiaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in wet habitats such as marshes, swamps, and along the edges of streams and ponds.
The Sium suave plant typically grows up to 1 meter in height and has compound leaves that are divided into lance-shaped leaflets. The plant produces white or greenish-white flowers that are arranged in umbrella-shaped clusters known as umbels. These flowers bloom from early to mid-summer and are pollinated by insects.
The edible roots of Sium suave are long, slender, and cylindrical in shape, resembling a parsnip. They are usually harvested in the late summer or early fall. The roots can be eaten raw or cooked and have a flavor similar to that of a carrot or celery, with a slightly sweet and nutty taste.
In addition to its culinary uses, Sium suave has also been used for its medicinal properties. The plant contains compounds that have diuretic, antirheumatic, and antispasmodic effects. It has been traditionally used as a herbal remedy to treat urinary tract infections, bladder and kidney disorders, as well as rheumatic conditions.
Overall, Sium suave is a wetland plant with edible roots that can be consumed both raw and cooked. It also possesses medicinal properties and has been historically used to treat various ailments.
