Saw-parsley
daucus muricatus
Also known as: ["Saw-parsley","Spiny carrot"]
Overview
A biennial herbaceous plant with finely divided leaves and small white flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Daucus |
| Botanical Name: | Daucus muricatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed in a sunny area, or container with adequate drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically after flowering or when plants become overgrown.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust to partial shade in extreme heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; ensure proper ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
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 content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid overwatering; amend soil with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering; use organic options like compost tea; stop fertilizing before flowering.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; stem cuttings can also be used for some varieties.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
- Transplant when seedlings are established.
- For cuttings, take a healthy stem, apply hormone, plant in medium, and maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or cactus mix with perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, rooting hormone, misting spray bottle, sharp scissors.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; maintain consistent moisture; harden off seedlings before transplanting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead leaves or stems at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to encourage healthy growth.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners or scissors; disinfect tools between uses.
Checklist
Inspect plant; remove dead/damaged parts; sanitize tools; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
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; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
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 good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature bolting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection; move containers indoors; use row covers for in-ground plants.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, and flowering can be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
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 muricatus is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant lacks compounds that are harmful to feline physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicDaucus muricatus is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would pose a risk to canine health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicDaucus muricatus, commonly known as spiny carrot, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is a wild relative of the cultivated carrot and is not known to produce toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in humans.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Daucus muricatus edible?
A: While not commonly consumed, the plant is generally considered non-toxic and its relatives (like carrots) are edible.
Q: Does Saw-parsley attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its small white flowers.
Q: How should I care for Daucus muricatus?
A: It requires well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, with minimal watering once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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