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Golden Chervil (Chaerophyllum aureum)

Golden Chervil

Golden Chervil (Chaerophyllum aureum) is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its finely divided leaves and white flowers arranged in umbels, typically found in woodlan

Above information is sourced from Wikipedia

Sunlight

Partial shade to full sun.

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist, but well-drained.

Soil

Humus-rich, moist, well-drained loam.

Temperature

Hardy in temperate climates, tolerates frost.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Minimal; compost or balanced slow-release in spring if needed.

Care Requirements

Light

Partial shade to full sun.

Water

Keep soil consistently moist, but well-drained.

Soil

Humus-rich, moist, well-drained loam.

Temperature

Hardy in temperate climates, tolerates frost.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Minimal; compost or balanced slow-release in spring if needed.

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Category

Ornamental

Plant Place Type

Ground, Garden

Plant Environment

Outdoor

Lifespan

Perennials

Plant Height

0.5-1.5 m

Spread

0.3-0.6 m

Growth Rate

Moderate

Dormancy

Winter

Leaf Color

Green

Leaf Type

Pinnately compound

Flower Size

0.5-1 cm

Optimal Sunlight Lux

60000

Image Gallery

Flowering & Fruiting Cycles

Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.

Northern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · JunPeak fruit · Jul
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths76
Southern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · JulPeak fruit · Aug
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths76
Synonyms
Chaerophyllum hybridum Ten.
Chaerophyllum maculatum Willd.
Chaerophyllum monogonum Kit. ex Link
Chaerophyllum temuloides Boiss.
Chaerophyllum trapezuntinum Boiss.
Croaspila aurea (L.) Raf.
Myrrhis aurea All.
Myrrhis maculata Sweet
Scandix aurea (L.) Roth
Selinum aureum E.H.L.Krause
Taxonomy
  • kingdomPlantae
  • divisionTracheophyta
  • classMagnoliopsida
  • orderApiales
  • familyApiaceae
  • genusChaerophyllum
  • speciesChaerophyllum aureum
Toxicity

Toxic for humans

Yes

Rating: 3/5

Toxic for pets

Yes

Rating: 3/5

Edible

No

Contains furanocoumarins which can cause phototoxicity (skin irritation upon contact with sap followed by sun exposure). Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.

Additional Care Tips

Golden Chervil thrives in consistently moist soil, particularly during its active growth phase and dry spells. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Watering deeply a few times a week is generally more beneficial than frequent shallow watering, promoting deeper root development. Reduce watering significantly during its winter dormancy period.

Pruning is minimal for Golden Chervil. Deadhead spent flower stalks to prevent excessive self-seeding if not desired, or to encourage a tidier appearance. Cut back any yellowing or damaged foliage as needed throughout the growing season. In late autumn or early spring, the entire plant can be cut back to ground level to encourage fresh new growth.

Golden Chervil can be propagated by seed or by division. Seeds can be sown directly outdoors in autumn or early spring, requiring a period of cold stratification for optimal germination. For division, carefully lift mature clumps in early spring or autumn and separate them into smaller sections, ensuring each section has roots and shoots. Replant immediately.

As an outdoor perennial typically grown in the ground, repotting is not usually applicable. If grown in a container, which is less common, repot every 2-3 years into a slightly larger pot with fresh, rich potting mix. This is best done in early spring before new growth begins. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.

FAQs

What kind of light does Golden Chervil prefer?

Golden Chervil thrives in partial shade but can tolerate full sun, especially in cooler climates, provided the soil remains consistently moist.

Is Chaerophyllum aureum edible?

No, Golden Chervil (Chaerophyllum aureum) is not considered edible and should not be consumed. It contains compounds that can cause mild toxicity or skin irritation.

How tall does Golden Chervil grow?

Golden Chervil typically grows to a height of 0.5 to 1.5 meters, with a spread of 0.3 to 0.6 meters at maturity.

What type of soil is best for Golden Chervil?

Golden Chervil prefers humus-rich, consistently moist, and well-drained loam. It benefits from organic matter incorporated into the soil.

Does Golden Chervil require much pruning?

Pruning is minimal; mainly deadhead spent flowers to prevent excessive self-seeding and cut back any yellowing or damaged foliage. The plant can be cut back to the ground in late autumn or early spring.