Noxious Weeds That Harm Washington State

wild chervilIdentification: Wild chervil is a biennialmember of the parsley family that can grow 1-4feet tall. Stems are hollow, noticeably ridged, andlower portions of the stem are covered in soft,felt-like hairs. Leaves are fernlike and slightlyhairy, especially the undersides. Flowers arewhite and arranged in clusters on stalks arrangedlike umbrella spokes. Bloom time begins as earlyas March. Look for rod-shaped black fruits atmaturity.Impact: Wild chervil is highly adaptable and willgrow in almost any type of soil. It forms denseinfestations that outcompete native plants andreduce habitat quality for wildlife. It spreadsrapidly along roadsides and other rights-of-way.Control: For small patches, dig up and disposeof plants, being careful to remove the taproot.Selective herbicides can be effective, especiallywhen controlling large infestations. Tillingplants into the soil, followed by seeding withcompetitive grasses, can control wild chervil.W-36Anthricus sylvestris