Family: Apiaceae
Author: (L.) Crantz
Bibliography: Cl. Umbell. Emend.: 77 (1767)
Year: 1767
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Chaerophyllum
Vegetable: False
Observations: SE. Canada to NC. & E. U.S.A.
Description
Spreading chervil, scientifically known as Chaerophyllum procumbens, is a charming member of the Apiaceae family. This delicate plant, first described in 1767 by the botanist Heinrich Johann Nepomuk von Crantz, whose authority is indicated by the notation “(L.) Crantz”, has a notable presence in both southeastern Canada and the eastern regions of the United States, extending its range down to North Carolina.
This herbaceous plant can be identified through its characteristic sprawling habit and finely divided leaves, which resemble those of its better-known relative, the garden chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium). Unlike its upright cousin, the spreading chervil tends to grow nearer to the ground, with stems that often recline or spread outwards as indicated by its common name.
The delicate, lacy foliage of Chaerophyllum procumbens is a delight to the eye, often creating a feathery carpet in shaded woodlands and moist, low-lying areas. Although it may appear fragile, it plays an essential role in local ecosystems, providing habitat and food for various insect species.
During the blooming season, the spreading chervil graces its surroundings with clusters of small, white flowers arranged in umbels, a trademark of plants in the Apiaceae family. These flowers not only add to the aesthetic beauty of natural landscapes but also attract pollinators, thus contributing to the propagation of wild flora.
Despite its somewhat modest and overlooked appearance compared to other more prominent wildflowers, spreading chervil holds its unique charm and ecological significance. Its presence from southeastern Canada down through the Eastern United States highlights its adaptability and the diverse conditions under which it can flourish.
For botanists and plant enthusiasts, spotting the Chaerophyllum procumbens amid a forest floor or by a gently babbling brook can be a quiet reminder of the intricate web of plant life that supports broader ecosystems. Its understated elegance and role in native habitats make it a subtle, yet indispensable part of the botanical world.
Common Names
Eng: slender chervil, spreading chervil, creeping chervil
Fra: cerfeuil couché
En: Spreading chervil, Slender chervil, Creeping chervil
Ar: سرفل مفترش
Fr: Cerfeuil couché
Synonyms
- Myrrhis procumbens ((L.) Spreng.)
- Scandix procumbens (L.)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Delaware (native)
- District of Columbia (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Iowa (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Michigan (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- Nebraska (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- New York (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Ontario (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Virginia (native)
- West Virginia (native)
- Wisconsin (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Fritzflohrreynolds (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 8, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 8, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 8, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Flower
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. (public)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Robert H. Mohlenbrock. USDA SCS. 1989. Midwest wetland flora: Field office illustrated guide to plant species. Midwest National Technical Center, Lincoln. Courtesy of USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. (public)
Taken May 8, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 8, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Fruit
Taken May 8, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Habit
Taken May 8, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3034652)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30261463-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Chaerophyllum procumbens (L.) Crantz)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
