Hairy Chervil
chaerophyllum hirsutum
Also known as: ["Mountain Chervil","Hairy Parsley"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant native to mountainous regions of Europe, known for its hairy stems and leaves, and small white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Chaerophyllum |
| Botanical Name: | Chaerophyllum hirsutum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning as needed; major pruning in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure bottom drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); tolerates cooler nights in spring and fall.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent plants; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for fresh soil and growth space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; bud drop in fluctuating temperatures.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; provide a layer of mulch for insulation.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant periods.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicChaerophyllum hirsutum is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would harm feline health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicChaerophyllum hirsutum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in this plant that would pose a risk to canine health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicChaerophyllum hirsutum is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It lacks significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse physiological effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Chaerophyllum hirsutum edible?
A: While related to edible chervils, Chaerophyllum hirsutum is not commonly consumed and its edibility is uncertain.
Q: Does Hairy Chervil attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How should I care for Chaerophyllum hirsutum?
A: It prefers partial shade, moist soil, and moderate watering; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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