Cow Parsley
anthriscus sylvestris
Also known as: ["Queen Anne's Lace","Wild Chervil"]
Overview
A herbaceous biennial plant native to Europe and Asia, known for its delicate, lacy white flowers and fern-like foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Anthriscus |
| Botanical Name: | Anthriscus sylvestris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or bright indirect light per day.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is loose and airy; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid placing near heat sources; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering; use organic options for slow release; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead flowers; trim back overgrown stems; shape the plant as needed.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tools.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh soil with good drainage; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; improves growth and prevents congestion.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water gently; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, allowing water to penetrate the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, or dieback in extreme cold.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants indoors; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAnthriscus sylvestris is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to felines when ingested, though overconsumption may result in mild gastrointestinal disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAnthriscus sylvestris is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause significant adverse effects when ingested by canines, though excessive consumption may lead to mild digestive upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAnthriscus sylvestris, commonly known as cow parsley, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high fiber content and potential irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cow Parsley edible?
A: Yes, the young leaves and stems are edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish, but they should be harvested before flowering.
Q: Does Cow Parsley attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hoverflies.
Q: Is Cow Parsley invasive?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in some regions and may spread rapidly in disturbed or uncultivated areas.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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