Contents
Description
Chaerophyllum Involucratum, commonly known as the woolly chervil or hairyfruit chervil, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the Apiaceae family. It is native to Central Europe and Asia Minor, including Turkey and Iran. The plant grows up to 1 meter tall and produces clusters of small white flowers that bloom from May to July.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Chaerophyllum |
Appearance
The woolly chervil has a basal rosette with leaves that are green and hairy on both sides. The stem is also hairy and has a reddish tinge. The plant produces small white flowers that grow in clusters and have a diameter of approximately 3mm. The fruit is covered in hairs and splits into two parts when mature, releasing the seeds.
Care Guide
Water
The woolly chervil prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly to keep the soil damp. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The woolly chervil does not require a lot of fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer should be sufficient.
Soil
The woolly chervil prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 5.5 to 7.5 is ideal for this plant.
Sunlight
The woolly chervil prefers partial shade to full sun, but it can tolerate full shade.
Hardiness Zones
The woolly chervil can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The woolly chervil is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. It can also be attacked by aphids, caterpillars, and slugs.
Habitat
The woolly chervil is native to Central Europe and Asia Minor, including Turkey and Iran. It grows in meadows, open woodland, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is woolly chervil edible?
A: Yes, woolly chervil is edible. The leaves and stems can be used to add a mild, parsley-like flavor to salads, soups, and stews. However, it should be consumed in moderation as it contains toxic compounds that can cause skin irritation and digestive problems.
Q: How do I propagate woolly chervil?
A: The woolly chervil can be propagated through seed or division. The best time to divide the plant is in the spring or fall.
Q: How tall does woolly chervil grow?
A: The woolly chervil can grow up to 1 meter tall.
Q: How long does it take for woolly chervil to bloom?
A: The woolly chervil blooms from May to July.
Related Plants
- Chaerophyllum bulbosum
- Chaerophyllum hirsutum
- Chaerophyllum temulum
- Chaerophyllum tainturieri
References
- “Chaerophyllum Involucratum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c832.
- “Chaerophyllum Involucratum.” Plants For A Future. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Chaerophyllum+involucratum.
- “Woolly Chervil.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/27370/chaerophyllum-involucratum/details.
