The Apiaceae or carrot family is also called the Umbelliferae, and that name is a clue to the characteristic simple- or compound-umbellate inflorescences that are present in the majority of species. Other species have inflorescences of dense heads (Eryngium) or of racemes or panicles (subfamily Mackinlayoideae). The Apiaceae appears to have been the first flowering plant family to be recognized as such, in the late 16th century. Found all over the world, its members are most common in temperate areas. The family contains 400-450 genera and about 3500 species, including such popular edibles as cumin, parsley, carrot, dill, caraway, fennel, celery, coriander, parsnips, anise and chervil. The leaves are alternate and almost always variously pinnate. The flowers follow a simple pattern of 5 petals, 5 free stamens, reduced calyx and inferior ovary. Poison hemlock is another family member.