Torilis spp.
hedge parslies
Europe, the Mediterranean, North Africa, and temperate Asia
SunFull Sun – Part Shade
Overview
Torilis is a genus of about 15 species of annual and biennial herbs in the carrot family, Apiaceae, native to Europe, the Mediterranean, North Africa, and temperate Asia. Plants grow 20-120 cm (8-47 in) tall on slender, branched, often roughly hairy stems. The leaves are one to three times pinnately divided into narrow, toothed segments, resembling those of wild carrot. Tiny white to pinkish flowers are held in compound umbels 2-4 cm (0.8-1.6 in) across, each umbel with few rays and small bracts. The fruit is an egg-shaped schizocarp 3-5 mm (0.1-0.2 in) long covered in hooked or curved bristles that catch on fur and clothing, spreading the seed. Several species, including Torilis arvensis and T. japonica, have naturalized as weeds of hedgerows, field margins, and disturbed ground across North America and elsewhere. The clinging seeds and rapid colonization of bare soil make these plants difficult to control once established in pasture or garden.
Native Range
Torilis is native to Europe, the Mediterranean basin, North Africa, and temperate and western Asia. Through seed that clings to animals and clothing, several species have spread to North and South America, Australia, and other temperate regions as naturalized weeds.Suggested Uses
Torilis has no ornamental or crop use and is managed as a weed of pastures, field edges, and gardens. The young foliage has been used locally as a pot-herb, and some species appear in traditional herbal preparations. The bristly seed is a contaminant of wool and fur.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height8" - 3'11"
Width/Spread8" - 1'6"
Bloom Information
Flowering runs from late spring into summer, May to August in temperate regions. The small white umbels open over several weeks and are visited by flies, beetles, and small bees. Bristly fruits ripen by late summer and detach readily to hitchhike on passing animals.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
White to pinkishFoliage Description
GreenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-10 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