Fool's parsley
Aethusa cynapium · Apiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant fool's parsley: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September
- Adult size
- 12 to 32 inches in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to 5 °F/-15 °C)
- Origin
- Temperate and western Europe
- Soil type
- Rich, moist, well-draining soils
Care
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist during growth, especially in dry periods. Moderate watering is sufficient; this plant dislikes standing water. Reduce watering in autumn.
Light exposure
Lesser hemlock develops best in partial shade or dappled light. It tolerates full sun in cold regions, but prefers filtered light, especially in warm climates.
Soil and preparation
Prepare rich, moist, well-draining soil. Garden soil improved with compost works perfectly. Avoid compacted or chalky soils.
Fertilizing
An application of well-decomposed compost in spring is generally sufficient. Light feeding during the growing season (balanced organic fertilizer type) can support growth, but isn't essential.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove spent flowers to extend flowering and limit self-seeding. In late autumn, cut the plant back to ground level. No formal pruning is necessary; it's cultivated mainly for its natural form.
Diseases and pests
Generally very hardy and rarely troubled by pests. Watch for standing moisture that could encourage root rot or leaf spots. Proper spacing and good air circulation are preventative.
Did you know?
Lesser hemlock bears its common name due to its striking resemblance to poison hemlock (Conium maculatum), a toxic plant famous for poisoning Socrates in ancient Greece. Although non-toxic itself, Aethusa cynapium long caused confusion among herbalists, hence the historical importance of correctly identifying plants in the Apiaceae family.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Shrubby Hare's EarBupleurum fruticosum
- Crowfoot-leaved hare's-earBupleurum ranunculoides
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.