SafePlants

Parsley Piert (Aphanes arvensis)

Parsley Piert, scientifically known as Aphanes arvensis, is a small, often overlooked plant found in various environments. It's an annual broad-leaved weed belonging to the rose family.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• This plant is described as "downy," which may be a tactile consideration for some individuals.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Aphanes arvensis L.
• Common Names: Parsley Piert, Field Parsley-piert, Western Lady's-mantle, Parsley Breakstone, Field Lady's Mantle, Parsley Piercestone, Perce-Pierre, Colickwort, Field Lady.
• Family: Rosaceae (Rose family)
• Synonyms: Alchemilla arvensis Lamk., Alchemilla arvensis Scop., Aphanes occidentalis, Alchemilla cuneifolia, Alchemilla occidentalis.

Distribution and Habitat

• Parsley Piert is common throughout Great Britain and the British Isles.
• It thrives in dry soil, arable fields, bare wastelands, waste places, gravel pits, and on the tops of walls.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is an annual plant, growing to a height of approximately 0.1 meters (4 inches) and a spread of 0.2 meters (8 inches).
• It has a sprawling growth habit.
• Flowering occurs from April to October, with seeds ripening from July onwards.
• The plant is described as "downy."

Ecological Role

• Parsley Piert is considered a weed, particularly a broad-leaved weed in arable fields.

Traditional Uses

• Historically, Parsley Piert has been used in herbal medicine to treat kidney stones and infections.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Bayer CropScience provides crop protection products, indicating that Parsley Piert can be a target of weed control measures in agriculture.

Resources and Further Information

• Dave's Garden: A community where people share gardening tips and ideas.
• WebMD: Offers patient medical information on Parsley Piert.