Ammi (plant)

Ammi is a genus of flowering plants in the family Apiaceae (Umbelliferae), commonly known as carrot-family plants. The genus includes two notable species: Ammi majus (Bishop's Flower, False Queen Anne's Lace) and Ammi visnaga (Toothpick Weed, Khella).

Ammi majus is an annual or biennial plant native to the Mediterranean region, North Africa, and the Middle East, but has become naturalized in many other parts of the world. It is characterized by its lacy white flower umbels and is often cultivated as an ornamental plant. However, it can also be an agricultural weed. Ammi majus contains furanocoumarins, which can cause phytophotodermatitis, a skin reaction caused by exposure to sunlight after contact with the plant.

Ammi visnaga is also native to the Mediterranean region and is distinguished by its more tightly clustered, compact flower heads. Historically, Ammi visnaga has been used in traditional medicine. Its fruits contain khellin, a chemical compound that has been used as a muscle relaxant, particularly in the treatment of asthma and angina. Modern pharmaceuticals have largely replaced khellin derivatives due to concerns about side effects.

Both Ammi majus and Ammi visnaga are relatively tall plants, typically growing to a height of 1-2 meters. They thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil. The seeds of both species are small and easily dispersed. While valued for their ornamental and historical medicinal properties, caution should be exercised when handling these plants due to the presence of phototoxic compounds in Ammi majus and the potential side effects associated with khellin in Ammi visnaga.