Cow-parsley
Anthriscus sylvestris
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
ME
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Cow-parsley is a biennial wildflower that produces delicate white umbrella-shaped flower clusters in late spring and early summer. This European native has ferny foliage and can self-seed readily in the garden, creating naturalized colonies over time.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cow-parsley takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Non-native species may be restricted
- Can appear weedy and unkempt
- Self-seeds aggressively and may spread beyond intended areas
Wildlife value
The flat-topped flower clusters attract a diverse array of pollinators including native bees, beneficial beetles, and flies during its May-June bloom period.
Common questions
- How much sun does Cow-parsley need?
- Cow-parsley grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Cow-parsley bloom?
- Cow-parsley blooms in May and June.
- Where is Cow-parsley native?
- Cow-parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris) is native to ME, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Cow-parsley attract?
- Cow-parsley draws bees, beetles, and flies.
- Is Cow-parsley HOA-friendly?
- Cow-parsley takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Cow-parsley? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz