Corn Caraway
Petroselinum segetum

Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae

What it is like

Petroselinum segetum is a BIENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 1

Where it is found

Hedgerows and grassy places.

Western and southern Europe, including Britain, to N. Africa and W. Asia.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

An aromatic herb, used for culinary purposes.

Condiment: the various plants that are used as flavourings, either as herbs, spices or condiments.

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

See the plant's native habitat for ideas of its needs.

Propagating it: Seed - sow late spring in situ.

Best place to grow: Meadow; Hedgerow;

Habit: Biennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Corn caraway is said to contain the alleged 'psychotroph' myristicine.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Carum segetum.