Golden Chervil (Chaerophyllum aureum)

Golden Chervil

Chaerophyllum aureum

Its fern-like golden variegation adds soft contrast to borders. Upright herbaceous perennial; common name: Golden Chervil.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Partial sun to dappled shade; avoid intense midday direct sun to prevent variegation fading
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; prefers cool temperate conditions, avoid prolonged heat above 28°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Finely divided, fern-like bright green foliage with golden-yellow variegation on leaf margins
  • Flower: Small, fragrant white umbel clusters held above the foliage canopy
  • Stem: Slender, hollow green stems with subtle vertical ribbing
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist; apply mulch to retain soil moisture

Fertilization

Diluted organic feed every 4 weeks. Use nitrogen-balanced organic feed to support foliage growth without overstimulating

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2 weeks; steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solid peels to avoid pest infestations
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower clusters to prevent unwanted self-seeding
  • Cut back foliage to ground level after the first autumn frost to tidy growth
  • Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No identified toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans; safe for handling and decorative use

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental ground cover, border edging, and container foliage plant