Torilis japonica
Torilis japonica · Apiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant torilis japonica: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- July to September
- Adult size
- 40 to 80 cm tall
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Hardy, down to -15°C
- Origin
- East Asia (Japan, China, Korea)
- Soil type
- Well-drained, tolerant
- Life cycle
- Annual or biennial
Care
Light exposure
Plant your torilis anthrisque in full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. It tolerates lightly shaded areas well but prefers bright conditions. A sunny exposure strengthens its vitality and branching.
Soil and planting
Prefer well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. Torilis appreciates light soils and doesn't tolerate prolonged waterlogging. Preparing the soil with compost promotes its development.
Watering
Water regularly during growth and flowering, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Once established, torilis becomes quite tolerant of dry conditions. During wet periods, reduce watering to prevent rot.
Pruning and maintenance
No formal pruning is necessary. You can remove faded flowers to extend blooming and encourage better branching. At season's end, leave some stems and fruits to dry if you want natural self-seeding.
Nutrition
Monthly applications of balanced fertilizer during growth stimulate flowering. Soils rich in organic matter are often sufficient; in depleted soils, diluted fertilizer at key periods improves results.
Diseases and pests
Torilis is generally resistant to common pests. Watch for powdery mildew in stagnant humidity and ensure good air circulation in plantings. Aphids may appear in spring: a spray of water is often enough to eliminate them.
Did you know?
Torilis anthrisque is mainly known as a ruderal weed in Europe, but it has a long history of use in traditional Asian medicine. Its small white-pink umbels resemble those of European wild chervil, hence its name. Its spiny fruits disperse easily on clothing and animals, explaining its remarkable colonization ability.
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
- CarawayCarum carvi
- MasterwortAstrantia major
- SamphireCrithmum maritimum
- Flat sea hollyEryngium planum
- Shrubby Hare's EarBupleurum fruticosum
- Crowfoot-leaved hare's-earBupleurum ranunculoides
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.