Ravenswing Cow Parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing'): Dramatic Purple Foliage for Shade Gardens

Overview

Ravenswing cow parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing'), also called Queen Anne's lace 'Ravenswing', is a stunning biennial or short-lived perennial with deeply cut, fern-like, deep purple-black foliage and airy umbels of tiny white flowers in late spring to early summer. The dark foliage provides dramatic contrast in shade gardens.

Botanical Details

• Family: Apiaceae (carrot family)
• Genus: Anthriscus
• Species: sylvestris
• Cultivar: 'Ravenswing'

Culture & Uses

Part shade to full sun, moist, fertile soil. Self-sows prolifically; deadhead to control. Use as foliage accent in borders, woodland edges, cottage gardens. Flowers attract beneficial insects. Not the edible wild carrot (Daucus carota). Foliage may cause phytophotodermatitis in sensitive individuals—handle with gloves. Hardy in USDA zones 4-9.