Overview
Daucus is a bushy, clump forming annual biennial in the genus Daucus, part of the Apiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Daucus grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include wildflower meadow, wildlife gardens and cottage and informal garden.
About
Daucus is a genus of herbaceous plants commonly known as wild carrot, typically biennial and growing to heights of 30 to 60 cm. This bushy, clump-forming cultivar features deciduous, finely divided, lacy leaves and produces small white flowers arranged in dense umbels, which develop from pink buds. It thrives in full sun on well-drained chalk, loam, or sandy soils with neutral to alkaline pH. Suitable for wildflower meadows, wildlife gardens, and informal cottage gardens, it is hardy to UK zone H7 and is best sown from seed in situ between February and July.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Daucus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Daucus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial
- Habit
- Bushy, Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Daucus
- Propagation
- Seed sown in situ between February and July
- Pest resistance
- Carrot fly, Slugs, Snails
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Daucus?
Daucus prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Daucus need?
Daucus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Daucus hardy in the UK?
Daucus has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Daucus?
Seed sown in situ between February and July.
More in the Daucus genus
- Daucus aureus
- Daucus carotawild carrot
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- Daucus carota 'Amini'carrot 'Amini'
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- Daucus carota 'Amsterdam Forcing'carrot 'Amsterdam Forcing'
- Daucus carota 'Aron'carrot 'Aron'
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