Carum

( KAY - rum )

At-A-Glance Information

This genus of flowering biennial plants includes species native to temperate areas of Africa and Europe. The most widely recognized and cultivated species in the genus is Carum carvi, the source of Caraway seeds, which are widely used as a spice in many regions around the globe. Grow these delicate plants in mixed beds or borders, in herb or potager gardens, or as part of pollinator gardens.

Carum Species and Varietals

The genus Carum is a member of the plant family Apiaceae, and includes sixteen distinct species. The best growing zones for Carum plants are USDA zones 3-10. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Carum carvi (Caraway, Meridian Fennel, Persian Cumin)
These biennial plants are native to western Asia, Europe and North Africa. Like many other species in the Carrot family, these plants produce finely divided, feathery green leaves. Flowering stems reach up to 2 feet tall, and are topped with small white or pink flowers in summertime (typically June through July). This species is considered invasive in the upper midwestern United States and British Colombia, Canada.

Caring for Carum

Carum, or Caraway, plants are typically grown from seed, but they are also occasionally available as seedlings from reputable nurseries. They do not transplant well due to the large roots they develop. Situate these productive plants in full sun; ideally, they need between 6 and 8 hours of sun each day to develop strong roots and flower well. Ensure that soil is well-draining, rich in nutrients, and has a pH of between 4.8 and 7.6 (acidic to neutral). If local soils are particularly poor in nutrients or do not drain well, make sure to amend the planting area with plenty of organic compost before installing. Apply a layer of mulch around the planting area to suppress weed growth, maintain consistent soil temperatures, and to increase soil moisture retention. Water new plants regularly as they establish their root system in their new home. Once established, they form deep taproots and can get by on little water. However, if you are planning on cultivating these plants for harvesting their seeds or roots, they will need regular waterings during their active growing seasons in spring and summertime.

Fertilizing is not necessary, though a layer of compost can be applied to the planting area before sowing and in early spring in the second year of growth. Pruning Carum plants is not necessary, though flowering heads can be removed if re-seeding is not desired. Carum is typically harvested in its second year for its seeds and roots, and unused plant parts are typically composted afterwards. However, in less-than-ideal growing conditions, these plants may take up to three to four years to produce a large enough storage root to flower and set seed.

Harvesting Carum
Carum plants are harvested for their seeds, leaves and roots. Caraway seeds, the most common Carum plant product, are produced by the species Carum carvi. They are typically used whole, and have an anise-like flavor and aroma. They are used to spice breads (especially rye bread) and other baked goods and to flavor desserts, casseroles and liquors. Seed harvesting happens in the second year of growth, though in less-than-ideal growing conditions, it may take plants as many as three or four years to produce flowers and seeds. The seeds are ready to be harvested about a month after flowering; seed heads will be dry and seeds will be brown and hard (see photo at the end of the Propagation section). This will typically happen in late summertime. After being cleaned, they can be stored in an airtight container away from light, and will stay fresh for 6 months to a year.

Carum leaves are used in soups, stews, and salads (similar to Parsley), or sautéed. They are harvested in the first year. Take no more than 1/3 of the plant leaves at any time to ensure continued health of plants. The leaves can be washed and dried, and then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The root of the Carum carvi plant is sometimes consumed as a wintertime root vegetable, used similarly to Parsnip or Carrot. Roots can be harvested after flowering. Dig up the root by working your way in from the exterior of the plant, being careful not to damage them. Roots are best used soon after harvesting, but can also be stored for up to a week in a cool, dark area. They are typically roasted, boiled, or fermented.

Disclaimer: Information contained on this website is strictly and categorically intended as a reference to be used in conjunction with experts in your area. Foraging and consumption of plant parts should never begin without the guidance and approval of a local plant specialist. The providers of this website accept no liability for the use or misuse of information contained in this website.

Propagation

Carum, or Caraway, plants are best propagated either by using cuttings or from seed. To propagate your Distaff Thistle plant, follow the instructions below:

Propagating Carum by Seed

Keep in mind that the plant you get from seed will not necessarily mimic all of the characteristics of the parent plant. To propagate by seed, you will need a paper bag, a pot or tray filled with well-draining compost or other organic material, a spray bottle and a fork. The best potting medium for seed germination is a light blend of 1/3 pasteurized soil or compost, 1/3 sand, vermiculite or perlite, and 1/3 coconut coir or peat moss.
Water your prepared seed tray or pot filled with soil, and ensure that good drainage is occurring. Place your seeds in your prepared pot or seed tray about a quarter inch to a half-inch under the soil surface. Cover them with soil and water with your spray bottle. Place your tray of seeds in a warm area that receives bright, indirect light. A greenhouse is the most ideal climate, but a planting tray inside a window will do as well. Germination usually takes 7-14 days from sowing. Once you begin to see seedlings sprout and they are able to be handled, transplant them to their own individual 3-inch pots, filled with the same potting medium as described in Step 1. Loosen the seedlings from the potting medium by digging down with the tines of your fork about an inch and a half, gently working the seedling up until it is out. Then, replant the seedling in its individual pot.
Keep the seedling's potting medium moist, but not wet, by spraying the soil with your spray bottle. Keep your new plant in an area with bright light (though not direct sunlight) and temperatures between 55 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure that the soil stays moist, but not wet, until the next spring (after the danger of frost has passed), when you can transplant it to its new home.
Alternatively, Caraway seeds can be direct-sown into prepared garden beds. To direct-sow, simply plant seeds 1/2 inch deep in rows spaced about 6-12 inches apart for best coverage and airflow.