American wild carrot
daucus pusillus
Also known as: ["Queen Anne's lace","wild carrot"]
Overview
A herbaceous biennial plant native to North America, resembling the cultivated carrot but with a smaller root.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Daucus |
| Botanical Name: | Daucus pusillus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: open garden beds or containers in sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct indoor light if acclimating outdoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; amend with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize sparingly to avoid leafy growth at the expense of roots; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or root division; stem cuttings can also be used but are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Provide warmth and humidity.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or cactus mix with perlite.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; cuttings root in 3–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pruners, rooting hormone (optional), humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or snip stems just above a leaf node; remove dead foliage carefully.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container; beneficial for root health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; 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; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is 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, stunted growth, or premature bolting.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil is well-drained.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become leggy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label; dilute properly; apply during active growth; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDaucus pusillus is not considered toxic to cats. Similar to dogs and humans, large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to its fibrous content. The plant does not contain any known toxic compounds harmful to cats.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicDaucus pusillus is not considered toxic to dogs. However, like in humans, large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to its fibrous nature. There are no known toxic compounds in the plant that would pose a significant health risk to dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicDaucus pusillus, commonly known as American wild carrot, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high fiber content and diuretic properties. The plant is not known to produce any significant toxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is American wild carrot edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and young roots are edible, but caution is advised as it resembles toxic plants.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers.
Q: How does it differ from cultivated carrots?
A: It has a smaller, less palatable root and is typically more fibrous.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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