Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing', also known as Black Cow Parsley, is a striking hardy perennial with finely divided, deep mahogany-purple foliage and delicate, airy umbels of tiny white flowers. The dark, fern-like leaves provide a beautiful contrast to the soft, lacy flowers, creating a wonderfully light and natural appearance.
Perfect for cottage gardens, naturalistic planting and mixed borders, 'Ravenswing' is particularly effective amongst softer greens and pastel-coloured flowers. Thriving in full sun or partial shade, its architectural foliage provides interest long before the flowers appear in late spring and early summer. The delicate blooms are also attractive to pollinators.
When to Sow: Sep–Nov & Mar–Apr
HOW TO SOW:
SEEDS REQUIRE COLD & DAMP STRATIFICATION.
Sow seeds immediately upon receipt, at any time of year, into moist seed compost. Keep the seed tray in a cold greenhouse or sheltered, shady corner, ensuring the compost remains consistently moist. Seeds require several months of cold, damp conditions before germination and can be very slow to emerge.
Avoid artificial heat, as this may cause the seeds to enter deeper dormancy. Transplant young seedlings carefully, avoiding unnecessary root disturbance.
Classification: Hardy short-lived perennial
Expert Level: Some experience required
Germination Time: Up to 30 days following suitable cold treatment
Flowering Time: May–Jul
Site: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: Fertile, well-drained or moisture-retentive soil
Soil Acidity: Acidic, neutral or alkaline
Moisture: Prefers moist but well-drained soil, particularly during establishment
Care: Remove spent flower heads to prevent excessive self-seeding. Allow selected plants to set seed if naturalising is desired. Seedlings may vary in foliage colour, so select the darkest-leaved plants to maintain the distinctive appearance of 'Ravenswing'. Cut back old growth in autumn
Use: Ideal for cottage gardens, naturalistic planting, woodland edges and mixed borders. The deep purple foliage creates striking contrast amongst green-leaved plants, while the delicate white flowers add height and movement. Attractive to pollinators and suitable for informal floral arrangements
Days to Maturity: Year 2
Height: 60–90cm
Plant Spacing: 30–45cm