Falcaria vulgaris
Falcaria vulgaris · Apiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant falcaria vulgaris: 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
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-15°C)
- Origin
- Central and southern Europe
- Soil type
- Well-draining, chalky
Care
Exposure
Falcaria prefers full sun or partial shade for optimal growth. It tolerates open, exposed areas well. A minimum of 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight promotes generous flowering.
Soil and planting
It adapts to most soils but prefers well-draining substrates, even poor or chalky ones. Avoid waterlogging that could promote root rot. Simple soil preparation is sufficient, without excessive enrichment.
Watering
Water regularly during growth, especially during prolonged drought. Once established, falcaria is relatively water-efficient. Reduce watering in autumn and let the plant dry out between waterings.
Fertilizer
Fertilizer is rarely necessary on normal soils. In very poor soil, a balanced fertilizer applied in spring is more than enough. Avoid excess nitrogen which would promote foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove spent flowers to encourage prolonged flowering. A light cleanup of dead stems in spring is sufficient. Falcaria often self-seeds spontaneously, control seedlings if you wish to limit its spread.
Diseases and pests
Very resistant plant, rarely affected by diseases. In very humid conditions, watch for slugs and snails that can damage young leaves. No specific treatment is generally necessary.
Did you know?
Falcaria has been used since antiquity in European folk medicine for its supposed digestive and carminative properties. Its scientific name 'vulgaris' highlights its wide distribution and adaptability, which made it an accessible plant to medieval peasants and herbalists.
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.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.