Anthriscus sylvestris, commonly known as Cow Parsley, is a wildflower native to Europe, North Africa and parts of Asia. This herbaceous plant is known for its delicate, lacy foliage and white umbel flowers.
It is often found growing along roadsides, in wooded areas and in meadows. In this blog, we will take a closer look at the many benefits of Anthriscus sylvestris, from its medicinal properties to its culinary uses. We will also explore the various ways it can be grown and harvested, as well as how to best enjoy its delicate flavor.
So, join us as we explore the world of Cow Parsley and discover its many uses.
Benefits of anthriscus sylvestris
Anthriscus sylvestris, commonly known as Cow Parsley, is a common wildflower native to both Europe and the United Kingdom. It is a hardy perennial and can be found in gardens, hedgerows, grasslands and road verges. Along with its attractive appearance, Cow Parsley also has many benefits including its appearance, medicinal qualities and uses around the garden.
Cow Parsley has a delicate small white flower, with umbrels of small yellow flowers and a feathery foliage. It can range in height from 50-150 cm, and therefore makes an appealing addition to any garden.
It often appears in season landscapes and can be planted with to brighten up flowerbeds or near pathways. Not only does Cow Parsley add a beautiful aesthetic to gardens, it also has medicinal qualities.
It has been used for centuries to treat a host of different ailments, including skin conditions and fever relief. Most recently, the stems have even begun to be used in the production of alternative medicines such as herbal oils, teas, and tinctures. The stems are usually collected by using a cloth and a careful cutting method, as to not damage the root.
Cow Parsley also has some uses around the garden. It can also be used in compost as a green fertilizer, which helps to stimulate the growth of other plants.
In addition, it can also be left as a mulch layer on beds protect the soil from heat and boost the above-ground health of the garden. All in all, Anthriscus sylvestris, or Cow Parsley, can be an easy and rewarding addition to the garden. Not only does it add to the beauty of the garden, it also has amazing medicinal qualities and some uses to assist gardeners in successfully maintaining their patch of green.
Growing anthriscus sylvestris
Growing Anthriscus sylvestris, more commonly known as cow parsley, can provide an attractive and low maintenance addition to any garden setting. Its delicate white lacey blooms, can be seen in abundance in British gardens in late spring and early summer. It’s delightfully airy yet delicate star-shaped flowers, draw in important insect species such as bees, butterflies and hoverflies who, in turn, help to pollinate your garden.
On top of this, Anthriscus sylvestris can also help create a soft, billowing backdrop to other garden plants. It spreads via small underground rhizomes and grows in clumps up to
5m tall. Though it tends to look best in its natural state, cow parsley can be easily trimmed back if necessary.
When it comes to planting, Anthriscus sylvestris prefers to be in a sunny or partially-shaded position in well-drained soil. Adding up to five centimetres of compost mixed with general-purpose fertiliser prior to planting is recommended in order to provide it with all the nutrients it needs. Planting should be done in either early autumn or spring, with around thirty centimetres of gap between each of the rhizomes.
This attractive and fast-growing perennial, with its refreshingly pretty blossoms, makes a delightful and low-maintenance addition to any British garden. Its ability to thrive in sun or shade and provide a much-needed source of food for wildlife, makes Anthriscus sylvestris a great garden asset.
Common uses of anthriscus sylvestris
Anthriscus sylvestris, commonly known as wild chervil or cow parsley, is a member of the Apiaceae or Umbelliferae family and is native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. Its scientific name derives from its wild (“sylvestris”) growth, not from the classical god of forests (“Silvanus”).
It is a biennial plant, which means it takes two years to reach maturity, with many white or pinkish flowers in summer, and a traditional landmark in European landscapes. Anthriscus sylvestris has many different uses. It is a popular, attractive and easy-to-care-for garden plant, providing a great source of food for pollinators.
Its foliage is known for being pungent and attractive – it can be used as a fragrant groundcover in gardens and even as a houseplant. In addition, it can be used as a culinary herb either fresh or dried, the leaves chopped or left whole, lending a slightly peppery, aniseed flavour to a variety of dishes.
Apart from culinary and cosmetic uses, anthriscus sylvestris has several additional benefits. It is widely used as a supplementary plant medicine, such as an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory tincture, or a decoction. It can also be used as an insect repellent, contains several flavonoids, and has been reported to inhibit lipid peroxidation and inflammation, thus making it a useful natural remedy for many skin ailments.
The seeds, leaves and roots of this plant have also traditionally been used for medicinal purposes by various cultures for hundreds of years. Finally, anthriscus sylvestris can also be used as food for farm animals or as green manure or fertilizer. As a cover crop, it helps control the spread of weeds and provides nutrients needed to maintain healthy, vibrant soil.
Farmers can als kriout the leaves and stems as fodder for their livestock, while the seeds can also be used as a protein supplement. This in turn supports healthy crops, soil fertility and increased yields.
Overall, anthriscus sylvestris is a valuable resource, both in the garden and in the farm. Its attractive and fragrant foliage, versatile culinary uses, medicinal properties and multiple uses make it a versatile and essential plant for any garden or farm.
Bottom Line
Anthriscus sylvestris, commonly known as wild chervil, is a species of herbaceous plant in the family Apiaceae. It is native to Eurasia and is widely naturalized in many parts of the world.
The plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine, and is also used as a culinary herb. It has a mild anise-like flavor and is used to flavor soups, salads, and other dishes. Wild chervil is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions and is easy to grow.
It is an attractive addition to any garden and can be used as a garnish or to flavor food.
FAQ
What is the scientific name of Anthriscus sylvestris?
The scientific name of Anthriscus sylvestris is Apiaceae (formerly Umbelliferae) Chaerophyllum sylvestre.
What are the common names of Anthriscus sylvestris?
Common names of Anthriscus sylvestris include wild chervil, cow parsley, and keck.
Where is Anthriscus sylvestris found?
Anthriscus sylvestris is found throughout Europe, North Africa, and temperate parts of Asia.
What are the uses of Anthriscus sylvestris?
Anthriscus sylvestris is an edible herb that is used in salads, soups, and other dishes. It is also used medicinally to treat digestive problems, skin conditions, and respiratory ailments. It is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens.
How is Anthriscus sylvestris propagated?
Anthriscus sylvestris is propagated by seed or division.
What are the characteristics of Anthriscus sylvestris?
Anthriscus sylvestris, commonly known as cow parsley, is an herbaceous biennial plant in the Apiaceae family. It is native to Europe and western Asia, but has naturalized in many other parts of the world. Characteristics of Anthriscus sylvestris include its tall, erect growth habit, reaching heights of up to 2 m, and its white, umbrella-shaped flower heads. The leaves are finely divided and fern-like, and the stems are hollow. The plant is toxic to livestock, and can cause photosensitivity in humans.
