Carum carvi aka Carroway

Carum carvi, or caraway, belongs to the carrot family, Apiaceae. Its native range covers temperate Europe and Asia. NC State also includes North Africa in its native range. It grows in meadows, farm fields, and waste ground. These sites range from lowlands to mountain areas. Garden sources describe it as a biennial. Kew also records a perennial life form.

Caraway grows upright and has a fast growth rate. Garden plants reach about 1–2 feet [0.3–0.6 metres] tall. RHS gives a lower height limit of 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. Spread ranges from about 1–1.6 feet [0.3–0.5 metres] across. Its green stems are hollow, smooth, and mostly lack branches. Soft green leaves grow in an alternate pattern along them. The leaves are pinnate, with two or three levels of division. Their thin segments give them a fine, feathery look. Leaves near the base are larger than those above.

Small flowers form umbels from late spring into summer. They are white, sometimes with a pink tint. Each flower has five petals with notched tips. The flowers draw pollinators and wasps that prey on aphids. Brown fruits follow the blooms and ripen for autumn harvest. These small fruits have raised ridges running along their length. The leaves and fruits have a strong scent. Caraway suits herb beds, borders, containers, and pollinator gardens.

Grow it in full sun for the strongest aroma. It also tolerates light shade. It prefers fertile soil that drains well and stays moist. Sand, loam, and clay can all support it. RHS lists acid, neutral, and alkaline soils as suitable. Its hardiness ratings are USDA zones 4–9 and RHS H7. Deep roots make established plants poor candidates for moving. Raise plants from seed and move seedlings while still small. Plants can seed themselves freely in a suitable site. Care needs are low, but pests and diseases can occur. Watch for aphids, carrot root fly, and parsley worms. Anthracnose and white mold are possible diseases.

People eat the leaves, seeds, and cooked first-year roots. The spicy seeds flavor bread, sweets, salads, and vegetables. Leaves give soups and stews a milder parsley-and-dill taste. Caraway has a history of use for digestive complaints. Seed oil also scents soaps and perfumes. Excess intake may harm the liver and kidneys. ASPCA lists it as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Its oils can cause mild vomiting and diarrhea.