Bunium bulbocastanum
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Bunium bulbocastanum

Black zira · Earthnut · Great pignut · Black-caraway · Great Earth-Nut

Tier 2 Difficulty: medium Water: low Light: full_sun
Temperature
5–35 °C
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 5–9
Click count
7
Observations
69

Description

Source: leafsnap

Bunium bulbocastanum is a plant species in the family Apiaceae. It was once used as a root vegetable in parts of western Europe, and has been called great pignut or earthnut.

Care Guide

💧 Water

The Earth-nut thrives best when it receives consistent moisture, so it's important to water it weekly for optimal growth. While it can endure some drought, keeping the soil moist during its active growth phase is crucial for its development, especially when grown outdoors as a herbaceous perennial.

☀️ Light Full sun

Earth-nut is native to habitats with plenty of sunlight, for example open fields and sunny meadows. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial sun.

Ideal: Full sun
🌡️ Temperature 5–35°C

Earth-nut prefers moderate temperatures, similar to those most people find comfortable. It grows best in conditions that are neither overly hot nor overly cold. The primary problem with high temperatures is the risk of sunburn, so in summer it is advisable to provide some shade to prevent excessive heat. When temperatures fall, Earth-nut becomes dormant. If continuous growth is wanted, higher temperatures must be maintained through the winter. Frost can damage the plant and should be avoided.

Ideal temperature: 5–35°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer

Earth-nut species respond well to one or two applications of organic fertilizers supplying potassium and phosphorus. Apply the fertilizer before planting, incorporate it into the soil, and water thoroughly. Typically one application is enough, but a second can be made once seedlings are established. Avoid overapplying fertilizer to prevent harm to the plants.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

The earth-nut is a herbaceous perennial plant known for its edible tubers and delicate foliage. To maintain its health and appearance, prune the plant in early spring to remove any damaged parts and to shape it. Later in the season, a light pruning can promote additional foliage and flowers. Always use clean tools to ensure better air circulation and to encourage healthy growth.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Bunium
Family
Apiaceae
Hardiness Zone
5-9
Mature Height
61 cm
Mature Spread
30 cm
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
White
Flower Size
0.20 cm to 0.25 cm
Bloom Time
Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer
Harvest Time
Late summer, Early fall
Native Area
Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Croatia, Slovenia, Belgium, France

Tags (5)

Common Names (7)

en Black zira
en Earthnut
en Great pignut
en Black-caraway
en Great Earth-Nut
en Earth chestnut
en Tuberous caraway