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Spreading Chervil

Chaerophyllum procumbens

Last reviewed: June 2026

Spreading Chervil (Chaerophyllum procumbens)
Photo: Robert H. Mohlenbrock. USDA SCS. 1989. Midwest wetland flora: Field office illustrated guide to plant species. Midwest National Technical Center, Lincoln. Courtesy of USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

4"–16" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun

Native to

AL, AR, DE, GA and 21 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Spreading chervil is a low-growing annual wildflower with delicate, fern-like foliage and small white flower clusters. It thrives in partial shade and prefers medium moisture conditions, making it suitable for woodland edges and shaded garden areas. The plant blooms from April through June, providing early season nectar sources.

In an HOA neighborhood

Spreading Chervil 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.

  • Annual lifecycle creates gaps when plants die back
  • Delicate appearance may look weedy to conventional gardeners
  • Small stature makes it appear unkempt in formal settings

Wildlife value

This native annual supports various pollinators including bees and beetles during its spring blooming period. Its early flowers provide important nectar when few other plants are in bloom.

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.

Does Spreading Chervil fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.

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