Overview
Daucus carota is a bushy, clump forming annual biennial in the genus Daucus, part of the Apiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 1-2 years. Daucus carota grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include wildflower meadow, wildlife gardens and cottage and informal garden. It is native to Europe to India.
About
Daucus carota is a biennial plant characterized by its deep taproot and robust, ridged stems that can grow up to 75 centimeters tall. During the summer months, it produces clusters of white flowers arranged in umbels, with a subtle pink hue in the buds and occasionally in the blooms. The central floret stands out with its dark red color, and it is the only flower in the cluster that generates nectar. This species can be distinguished from other members of the Apiaceae family by the three forked bracts that lie beneath the flowerhead, which curl inward after blooming, resembling delicate baskets.
About the genus
Daucus, commonly referred to as wild carrot, consists of herbaceous plants that are typically biennial, though some may not follow this pattern. They can grow to heights ranging from 30 to 60 cm. The leaves are triangular, tripinnate, and have a finely divided, lacy appearance. Flowers start as pink buds and develop into small, white blooms that are grouped in dense umbels. The fruit is small, hairy, and irregularly shaped.
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 carota size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial
- Habit
- Bushy, Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 1-2 years
- Suggested uses
- Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden
- Native to
- Europe to India
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Daucus carota
- Cultivation
- Grow in light, well-drained, deep soils in full sun. Wild carrot is an ancestor of all cultivated carrot varieties, see carrots cultivation page for more advice
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate from seed sown in situ between February and July, early sowings should be protected with cloches or biodegradable fleece. Sow thinly to avoid having to thin out seedlings, as this can attract carrot fly
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to carrot fly and slugs snails when young
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Daucus carota?
Grow in light, well-drained, deep soils in full sun. Wild carrot is an ancestor of all cultivated carrot varieties, see carrots cultivation page for more advice.
Where is the best place to plant Daucus carota?
Daucus carota prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Daucus carota need?
Daucus carota 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.
How do I prune Daucus carota?
No pruning required.
How big does Daucus carota grow?
Daucus carota reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 1-2 years to reach full size.
Is Daucus carota hardy in the UK?
Daucus carota has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Daucus carota?
Propagate from seed sown in situ between February and July, early sowings should be protected with cloches or biodegradable fleece. Sow thinly to avoid having to thin out seedlings, as this can attract carrot fly.
Is Daucus carota good for pollinators?
Yes — Daucus carota attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.