Alexanders

Latin Name:

Smyrnium olusatrum
Manx Name:

lus yn ollee
Season:

April - June
Locations where this species is found:
Port St Mary, Silverburn River, Port Erin, Fleshwick, Port Grenaugh, Silverdale Glen, Niarbyl, Glen Maye, South Barrule, Scarlett, Glen Mooar, Glen Helen

This plant is native to the Mediterranean, but has been introduced all over Europe. It is edible and was once used in many recipes, and was especially common in monastery gardens.

Alexanders can be found all over the island. Their Manx name is "lus yn ollee", which means "plant of cattle", perhaps chosen because cows and horses enjoy eating this plant.

Although Alexanders are edible, there are deadly poisonous plants that have a similar appearance, so I would not recommend eating them even if you are confident of your identification.
Click here for more information about Alexanders