French Hog's Fennel (Peucedanum gallicum)

French Hog's Fennel

Peucedanum gallicum

Feathery foliage adds delicate texture to wild meadows. Perennial herbaceous plant; common name: French Hog's Fennel.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers full sun to partial shade; tolerates dappled sunlight in warm summer climates
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to mild frost (down to 0°C); thrives in temperate temperatures between 15–25°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal leaves are pinnately divided, feathery, bright green; upper stem leaves are smaller and less divided
  • Flower: Umbel-shaped clusters of tiny white or pale yellow flowers
  • Stem: Erect, hollow, smooth green stems with faint ribbing
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Apply diluted organic feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen feed to support flowering rather than foliage growth

Composted eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer around the base of the plant; gently mix into the top 1 cm of soil to avoid root disturbance
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower heads to prevent unwanted self-seeding if desired
  • Cut back faded foliage to ground level in late autumn to tidy the planting area
  • Remove damaged or yellowing leaves throughout the growing season to maintain plant health
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental wildflower; limited traditional herbal use with insufficient clinical research