About
A wild carrot species somewhat variable in height ranging from around 50 to 200cm. Grown for ornamental rather than food use. Leaves are hairy, feathery and divided; upright stems bear umbels, 10-30cm in diameter, of small white to purplish flowers in summer.
About the genus
Daucus are more commonly known as wild carrot, a group of herbaceous, biennial (although not always) plants which can reach a height of between 30 to 60cm. The triangular shaped leaves are tripinnate, divided and lacy and flowers begin in pink buds, opening into small and white clustered together in dense umbels. The fruit is small, hairy and lumpy.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Sand, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained, Moist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in light, well-drained soils in full sun
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to carrot fly and slugs and snails when young
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free