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Herbaceous Perennial

Chaerophyllum hirsutum

hairy chervil

An upright, clump-forming perennial with apple-scented, fern-like leaves and umbels of white flowers from late spring to mid-summer

Synonyms
Chaerophyllum cicutaria

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring White Green
Summer White Green
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing or North–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Apiaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Chaerophyllum are tap-rooted perennials with fern-like, finely divided leaves and umbels of small white or pink flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a fertile, moist soil in sun or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame as soon as ripe or in early spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut down after flowering

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs, snails and aphids

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews

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