Cow parsley
Also known as
Wild chervil, Keck, Kecks, Mother-die
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
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Anthriscus sylvestris, commonly called cow parsley or wild chervil, is a vigorous, short-lived perennial or biennial umbellifer native to Europe and western Asia. It forms a basal rosette of finely divided, fern-like, tripinnate leaves, then sends up hollow, grooved stems 60–120 cm tall topped with airy, flat-topped umbels of small white flowers in late spring to early summer. The lacey inflorescences are magnets for pollinators and beneficial insects. It self-seeds freely and can form drifts along hedgerows and roadsides, lending a soft, frothy look. Preferring moist, well-drained, moderately fertile soils, it tolerates a range of conditions from sun to partial shade and is hardy to severe frost. While the young leaves are sometimes foraged, identification must be certain because it resembles toxic umbellifers such as poison hemlock. In some regions (e.g., parts of North America and New Zealand), it behaves invasively, so deadheading or controlled cultivation is recommended to limit spread.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Cow parsley
Water
Maintain evenly moist, well-drained soil, especially through spring as plants bolt and flower. Water deeply once per week in average conditions, providing 2–3 cm of water, and increase frequency during prolonged dry spells. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogged conditions, which can cause root issues. Mulch with leaf mold or compost to conserve moisture and buffer swings. Container-grown plants dry faster and may need watering every few days in warm weather.
Light
Grows well in full sun to partial shade. In cool climates, full sun encourages strong flowering; in warmer regions, provide dappled or afternoon shade to prevent wilting and premature seed set. Aim for 4–6 hours of direct light, with brighter exposure on richer, moist soils and brighter filtered light on leaner or drier sites. Too much deep shade leads to lanky growth and lodging; too much intense sun without moisture can scorch foliage.
Nutrients
Cow parsley is not a heavy feeder. Incorporate compost or well-rotted leaf mold into the soil in early spring to support steady growth without excessive lushness. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which promote floppy stems and lodging. In containers or very lean soils, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at half strength once in spring. Overfeeding is unnecessary and can increase self-seeding; prioritize soil health and mulch to maintain moisture and moderate nutrient release.
Temperature
Thrives in cool to mild temperate conditions, with ideal growth between 10–24°C. Fully hardy to winter freezes and tolerates temperatures well below -10°C once established. In hot summers above ~27–30°C, plants may decline earlier or go to seed quickly; provide afternoon shade and consistent moisture to reduce stress. No indoor chilling is required, but seeds benefit from cold stratification. Protect first-year seedlings from extreme heat and drying winds until well rooted.
