Species Rough Chervil
white flowers with lime buds, foliage and stems

Rough Chervil

Chaerophyllum temulum

Rough chervil (Chaerophyllum temulum) is a perennial herb that is found growing wild in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. The plant is a member of the carrot family and can reach up to 2 feet in height. Its leaves are finely divided and give off a slightl lemon smell when crushed. The plant has white, umbel-shaped flowers and produces small, ridged fruits. It is often used medicinally for a variety of ailments. The leaves are also used as a garnish or for flavoring soups and stews.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Rough Chervil (Chaerophyllum temulum) prefers slightly moist soil and so regular watering is essential to keep it happy and healthy. Generally, it should be watered once or twice a week depending on the growing conditions. Make sure you water thoroughly until the soil is evenly moist, but ensure that the soil is allowed to drain well. During the summer months when the plant is actively growing, you may want to increase the frequency of watering to 3 to 4 times per week. During the winter months, reduce the amount of watering to once or twice a week. Additionally, keep the soil moist but not soggy; this plant does not like wet feet.

sunlight

During optimal growing conditions, Rough Chervil plants receive plenty of sunlight. This sun-loving species typically prefers 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day, and partial shade during the hottest part of the day during the summer months. In cooler climates, full sun is necessary for proper growth and flowering. If the plant cannot get the optimal amount of sunlight, then it may grow poorly or fail to flower and set seed.

pruning

Rough Chervil (Chaerophyllum temulum) should be pruned in the late winter or early spring each year. Pruning should be minimal and limited to the removal of dead or damaged branches. It is a vigorous grower and should only require light pruning which may involve cutting back a few of the longest shoots to the base to keep the plant neat and shapely. Avoid cutting into old, woody growth as this can damage the plants and reduce its vigor.