Wild caraway
About This Species
Wild caraway (Meridian fennel, Persian cumin) was introduced to Canada as a spice crop from its native range of Europe, Asia and North Africa but has since escaped cultivation. It is a biennial plant that can quickly outgrow native plants. It prefers to grow in rangelands, pastures, roadsides or disturbed areas but can tolerate light shade or excess soil moisture, as well as survive light frost.
How to Identify
Wild caraway is an herbaceous plant with several erect, branched stems that grow 60-90 cm tall.
It is identified by white groups of flowers
Leaves are very finely divided and fern-like. This plant is difficult to identify when not in flower.
Take Action
You can control wild caraway with repeated hand-pulling before seed-set. Seeds can scatter easily, so use a plastic bag to carefully place over mature plants and dispose at a landfill or thoroughly burn. Note that repeated mowing of wild caraway is not effective, as plants re-bloom below cutting height.
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If you need advice about invasive species on your property or you are concerned about reported invasives in your local area, contact your local government or regional invasive species organization.
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