Overview
Daucus glochidiatus is an annual herb in the carrot family, growing 4-24 inches (10-60 cm) tall from a slender taproot. The leaves are finely dissected into narrow segments, forming a soft, fern-like rosette and stem foliage. Branching stems carry compact compound umbels of tiny flowers, each umbel about 0.4-0.8 inch (1-2 cm) across, in white to pale pink, opening in spring and early summer. As seed sets, the umbel contracts inward and the small fruits develop hooked bristles that cling to fur and clothing, aiding dispersal. The species grows across much of Australia, as well as New Zealand, in open grassland, woodland, and disturbed ground, completing its life cycle in a single season. The slender taproot is edible and was used as a food by Aboriginal peoples, though it is much smaller and more fibrous than the cultivated carrot. As an annual, the plant dies after seeding and relies on self-sown seed to return. Its small stature and clinging fruit limit its garden use to native meadow and bush-food plantings.
Native Range
Daucus glochidiatus is native to Australia, where it occurs in all mainland states and Tasmania, and it also grows naturally in New Zealand. It is found in grassland, open woodland, and disturbed or seasonally moist ground.Suggested Uses
Grown in native meadow, grassland, and bush-food plantings where the dissected foliage blends into mixed groundcover. The edible taproot suits bush-tucker and educational gardens. Small size and clinging seed limit its use as an ornamental feature.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height4" - 2'
Width/Spread4" - 10"
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs in spring and early summer. Compact umbels of tiny white to pale pink flowers open over a few weeks before the plant sets seed. The bristly fruits ripen as the foliage yellows and the annual completes its cycle.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
white to pale pinkFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Water & Climate
Water Needs
Drought Tolerance
Drought tolerant when established
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grow Daucus glochidiatus in full sun on light, well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. Sow seed in autumn or early spring directly where plants are to grow, since the taproot does not transplant well. Water to keep the soil lightly moist during germination and early growth, then reduce as plants mature. The species tolerates poor soils and needs little feeding. Being an annual, it sets seed and dies within one season, returning from self-sown seed in following years.Pruning
No pruning is required for this annual. Spent plants can be removed once seed has ripened and dispersed. Leaving some seed heads in place allows self-seeding for the following season.Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 1 gallons
✓ Toxicity
Non-toxicPlanting Guide
Planting Methods & Timing
Planting Method
direct sow
Direct Sow Timing
autumn or early spring
Days to Maturity
90–150 days
Plant Spacing
6 inches