Wild Chervil is a herbaceous biennial or short-lived perennial from the carrot/parsley family, introduced to North America from Europe. It is commonly found along roadsides, cultivated field edges and pastures, and is abundant in various locations through The Blue Mountains and Grey County. Wild Chervil can quickly take over an area, displacing native species and forming dense stands that are difficult to control.
How to identify Wild Chervil
- Wild Chervil is a biennial or short-lived perennial producing numerous compound Umbel Shaped clusters of white flowers.
- Flowers bloom usually from May to June. Seeds appear late June through July.
- Plant has alternately arranged, compound, fern-like leaves.
- Stems are entirely green, ridged, and hollow. Portions of the stem are smooth while lower portions are hairy.
- Plants are upright and can grow to 1-1.5m in height.
- Chervil resembles other plants in the carrot/parsley family, such as Wild Carrot (Queen Anne’s Lace).
- Wild Chervil can be easily recognized because it is the first species in the carrot/parsley family to flower in late spring.
View Wild Chervil Fact Sheet
What to do if you think you've seen Wild Chervil
If you suspect or identify Wild Chervil growing on your property, please contact By-Law Services. If you suspect or identify Wild Chervil growing within the Town's Road Allowance, please contact the Operations Department.