Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing'

Names

• Family

  Apiaceae.

• Synonyms

  Wild Chervil, Cow Parsley, Queen Anne's Lace, Ravenswing.

• Common names

  Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Cow Parsley 'Ravenswing' is generally not considered toxic to humans. However, it is important to note that Cow Parsley belongs to the Apiaceae family, which contains several plants that are highly toxic and can be easily confused with Cow Parsley, such as poison hemlock (Conium maculatum) and fool's parsley (Aethusa cynapium). If someone mistakenly ingests a toxic relative believing it to be Cow Parsley, they could be poisoned, showing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, respiratory difficulty, and in severe cases, it could lead to central nervous system effects, weakness, seizures, and potentially death. Therefore, it is crucial to positively identify Cow Parsley before any potential ingestion and exercise caution due to its similarity to these dangerous relatives.

• To pets

  Cow Parsley 'Ravenswing' is not known to be toxic to pets. However, the same caution applies as with humans. The plant belongs to a family with several toxic relatives that can easily be mistaken for Cow Parsley, including poison hemlock and fool's parsley. If a pet ingests one of these toxic look-alikes, they could exhibit symptoms such as drooling, difficulty breathing, muscular weakness, convulsions, and in severe cases, may result in death. Pet owners should ensure correct identification of Cow Parsley and prevent pets from consuming wild plants due to the risks associated with these toxic relatives.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Biennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Dark purple

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  3 feet (0.91 meters)

• Spread

  1.5 feet (0.46 meters)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Ornamental Appeal: Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing', commonly known as Cow Parsley, has purple-flushed, lacy foliage and delicate white flowers that add aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
• Attracts Wildlife: The flowers provide nectar for beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, supporting biodiversity.
• Easy to Grow: Cow Parsley is known for being low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established in appropriate growing conditions.
• Shade Tolerance: This plant can thrive in partially shaded areas where other plants might struggle, offering design flexibility for gardeners.
• Naturalization: It can spread and create natural drifts in a garden setting, which can give a wild and organic feel to the landscape.
• Seasonal Interest: The dark foliage remains attractive from spring until fall, providing extended seasonal interest in the garden.
• Herbaceous Perennial: As a perennial, it returns each year, reducing the need for annual replanting.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dry weather, making it a good choice for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Photography Prop: The dark, feathery foliage of Ravenswing creates strong visual contrast in garden photography and can enhance the depth and texture in a photo.
• Natural Dye: The plant can be used to derive a natural dye for fabric, providing a subtle greenish coloration.
• Garden Planning and Design: The unique dark foliage can be an important factor in garden design, providing a dark backdrop that helps lighter-colored plants stand out.
• Floral Arrangements: Stems of Ravenswing can be included in floral arrangements for a touch of dramatic foliage.
• Culinary Garnish: While not widely known for its edibility, the delicate leaves can provide an attractive and edible garnish for dishes that accommodate its flavor profile.
• Plant Companion: The plant can serve as a good companion plant for various vegetables in the garden by creating a contrasting foliage that may deter some pests.
• Insect Habitat: Ravenswing can provide a habitat for beneficial insects such as lacewings and ladybugs that contribute to pest control.
• Educational Tool: It can be used as a learning tool to teach students or gardening enthusiasts about plant genetics and the inheritance of traits like leaf color.
• Seasonal Decorations: Its striking leaves and umbel-shaped flowers can be dried and used in autumn-themed décor and craft projects.
• Privacy Screens: When planted in masses, the dense foliage can offer a degree of privacy in gardens or on patios.

Feng Shui

Queen Anne's lace is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

Queen Anne's lace is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Mystery: With its dark, near-black foliage, 'Ravenswing' can symbolize the unknown and enigmatic aspects of nature, invoking a sense of curiosity and the mysterious.
• Elegance: The delicate and fine-textured leaves of the Cow Parsley reflect a gracefulness that can represent sophistication and an appreciation for the finer things in life.
• Connection to Nature: As a wild plant, Cow Parsley often symbolizes a deep connection to wild, untamed natural landscapes and the organic patterns of life.
• Protection: In some contexts, Cow Parsley may be regarded as a symbol of protection due to its prolific nature and the way it quickly colonizes its environment, providing shelter to smaller species.