Rough chervil (Chaerophyllum temulum)

Where does Chaerophyllum temulum grow?

Chaerophyllum temulum grows in sunny to partially shaded areas with consistently moist soil. These include the edges of shrubbery, hedges, forests, roadsides, embankments, slopes, meadows, and ruderal sites such as construction sites.

Chaerophyllum temulum wayside — Chaerophyllum temulum at a construction site by the roadside.

Its natural range is in Europe and Western Asia. Chaerophyllum temulum is native to most European countries, and there are reportedly neophyte populations in the western United States and New Zealand (source).

Chaerophyllum temulum an shrubbery — Chaerophyllum temulum at the edge of a shrubbery.

Is rough chervil an urban plant?

Yes and no. Based on my observations, cow parsley does grow in urban areas, but it tends to colonize ruderal sites there, alongside other plants, rather than growing right up against building walls. The similar-looking burr chervil is occasionally found in those locations.

How does Chaerophyllum temulum grow?

Chaerophyllum temulum is mostly biennial, with seeds germinating from late summer into fall and only a few basal leaves appearing. Flowering shoots emerge only after overwintering. Once the seeds are ripe, the plant dies.

When in bloom, the total height can reach up to 1.2 meters. The stems may have a reddish tint near the base.

Chaerophyllum temulum flowers — In Central Europe, Chaerophyllum temulum shows its umbel-shaped inflorescences from May through August.

Due to its falcarinol content, Chaerophyllum temulum is mildly toxic and in sensitive individuals, contact can lead to skin irritation or contact dermatitis-like reactions.