Daucus carota subsp. sativus
carrot
This is the sub division of the carrot species from which the edible vegetables have been selected. They have well-developed taproots in a range of colours including cream-white, orange, yellow and purple
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Yellow Orange | Green | ||
Autumn | Yellow Cream Purple | Green | ||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Tufted
- Genus
Daucus are more commonly known as wild carrot, a group of herbaceous, biennial (although not always) plants which can reach a height of between 30 to 60cm. The triangular shaped leaves are tripinnate, divided and lacy and flowers begin in pink buds, opening into small and white clustered together in dense umbels. The fruit is small, hairy and lumpy.
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in light, well-drained, deep soils in full sun. See carrots cultivation page for more advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to carrot fly and slugs and snails when young
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.