Overview
Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing' is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Anthriscus, part of the Apiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 1-2 years. Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens, wildflower meadow and cottage and informal garden.
About
'Ravenswing' is a visually appealing variety of cow parsley, characterized by its dark purple foliage and flowers that exhibit a hint of pink. This plant is classified as a short-lived perennial.
About the genus
Anthriscus includes annual, biennial, and perennial species characterized by feathery foliage and clusters of small white flowers arranged in umbels.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Anthriscus
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 1-2 years
- Suggested uses
- Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow, Cottage and informal garden
- Toxicity
- Humans/Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful to skin with sunlight. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing'
- Cultivation
- Grow in any well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Cut down to near ground level in early autumn and mulch well
- Pruning
- Deadhead to prevent prolific self-seeding
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed; sow seeds in a cold frame in autumn or spring and select dark-leaved seedlings
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to slug, snail and caterpillar damage on young growth
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to powdery mildews
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing'?
Grow in any well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Cut down to near ground level in early autumn and mulch well.
Where is the best place to plant Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing'?
Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing' need?
Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
How do I prune Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing'?
Deadhead to prevent prolific self-seeding.
How big does Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing' grow?
Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing' reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 1-2 years to reach full size.
Is Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing' hardy in the UK?
Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing' has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing'?
Propagate by seed; sow seeds in a cold frame in autumn or spring and select dark-leaved seedlings.
Is Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing' toxic?
Humans/Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful to skin with sunlight. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants.