Marsh Parsley

Cyclospermum leptophyllum

Marsh Parsley is a winter annual broadleaf weed that is also referred to as Apium leptophyllum, Cyclospermum ammi and Cyclospermum leptophyllum.

Identify

Opposite

Upright

Dissected

Marsh Parsley can be identified by its upright growth habit that features many branched stems originating from the base. Its leaves are finely divided, growing opposite each other and along the stems. Marsh Parsley has a taproot with a secondary fibrous root system. Blooming from March through June, Marsh Parsley produces small clusters of tiny white flowers.

Life Cycle

Preferring sandy soils, this broadleaf weed is often found growing in poorly maintained lawns, waste areas and along roadsides. Marsh Parsley can be found throughout much of the southern United States and along the East and West coasts.

Control

Although good maintenance practices—including proper lawn mowing and watering—can help build a healthier lawn that is more resistant to weed invasion, the only way to completely remove Cyclospermum leptophyllum once it is established is with professionally selected and applied broadleaf weed killer products.