Weed of the Week: wild chervil

Wild chervil is a Class B weed native to Europe. This weed is not known to be toxic but is on the Washington State quarantine list. This plant is highly adaptable and will grow in almost any type of soil. It has an aggressive growth habit which quickly creates monocultures. It poses a serious threat to native plants and agriculture.

Wild chervil is an upright biennial or short-lived perennial. It can reach a height of one to three feet. The flowers grow in umbels up to 3.1 inches wide, with flower stalks originating from one point. Flowers are small and white and bloom from April to May. The stems on this plant are hollow and ridged. They are also hairy on the lower portion and smooth on the upper portion. Its elongated, oval-shaped fruits are black and about 0.2 inches long.

Wild chervil is found along roadsides, pastures, forest edges, and in waste areas. The weed reproduces by seed.

Small stands of wild chervil can be controlled through hand removal. Plants should be dug, taking care to remove the entire long taproot. Disturbance of the soil during manual control may cause the germination of any chervil seeds in the soil, so the area should be monitored to control any new seedlings.

If you have any questions regarding wild chervil - or how to identify other toxic weeds - please call Wahkiakum County Noxious Weed Control Coordinator Andy Lea at 360-795-3852.