Cow Parsley, Woodland chervil
Anthriscus sylvestris

Family: Apiaceae

What it is like

A small plant. It grows 60-150 cm high. It spreads 40-60 cm wide. It forms clumps. The leaves are fine and feather like. They are divided 3 times. The leaves are 15-30 cm long. They are deep green. The flowers are white. Caution: Don't mistake this plant for the poisonous hemlock Conium maculatum.

There are about 12 Anthriscus species. It has anticancer properties.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. In China it grows from sea level to 4,500 m above sea level. It suits hardiness zones 4-9. In Sichuan and Yunnan.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Albania, Asia, Australia, Balkans, Britain, Bulgaria, Caucasus, China, Estonia, Europe, Falklands, Finland, Georgia, Himalayas, Hungary, India, Ireland, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Nepal, North Africa, North America, Norway, Pakistan, Russia, Scandinavia, Siberia, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, Tasmania, Tibet, Turkey, Türkiye

How it is used for food

CAUTION: It is reported to cause abortions. The young leaves are eaten as a pot herb. It is also dried and stored for later use. Small quantities are used for seasoning. The stalks are also peeled and used. They are also pickled. The shoots are used as a spice in cheese. The roots are eaten.

It is foraged and supplied to restaurants in Sweden.

Edible parts

Leaves, roots, stem, flowers

How it is grown

It is grown from fresh seeds.

Its other names

Local names

Dudki, Gimi, Hundekjeks, Jeonho, Jeonhonamul, Keck, Limi, Mendi, Peniputsk, Putski, Wild beaked parsley

Synonyms

Anthriscus nemorosa Spreng.;