Daucus carota subsp. maximus
A wild carrot species somewhat variable in height ranging from around 50 to 200cm. Leaves are hairy, feathery and divided; upright stems bear umbels, 10-30cm in diameter, of small white to purplish flowers in summer. Grown for ornamental rather than food use
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drained, Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White Purple | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Tufted
- Genus
Daucus are more commonly known as wild carrot, a group of herbaceous, biennial (although not always) plants which can reach a height of between 30 to 60cm. The triangular shaped leaves are tripinnate, divided and lacy and flowers begin in pink buds, opening into small and white clustered together in dense umbels. The fruit is small, hairy and lumpy.
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows best in light, well-drained soils in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to carrot fly and slugs and snails when young
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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