Scientific Name: Daucus carota

Planting: Chocolate Lace, a hardy annual plant, typically grows to a height of 120cm (48 inches). It takes approximately 70-85 days to reach maturity from the time of planting. When planting Chocolate Lace, it is recommended to space the plants about 30cm (12 inches) apart. This plant thrives in full sun conditions.

As a hardy annual, Chocolate Lace does not require pinching for optimal growth and development. 

Harvesting : Harvest the flowers early in the morning when they are at their freshest. Use sharp, clean scissors or shears to cut the stems. Cut the stems low at the base, right above the rosette of leaves. Remove most of the leaves from the stem after cutting. Plunging into Water: Immediately place the harvested Chocolate Lace flowers in a bucket of cold water. Allow them to rest in water for at least 12 hours or more.

Vases Life: Chocolate Lace Flower ‘Dara’ has a vaselife of approximately 6-8 days

Appearance : The umbels of the Chocolate Lace Flower ‘Dara’ resemble clouds floating on strong, long stems. The color variations range from dark burgundy to light cocoa to bright white, with the hues changing as the flower ages. Even after the bloom fades, the seed heads form unique curly structures that add an enchanting touch to floral designs.

Special Features: The plant attracts a wide variety of pollinators, including wasps, butterflies, moths, and ladybugs. The root of the chocolate lace flower is edible when young, and the flowers can be battered and fried for culinary use. Baby chameleons also sleep inside the seed heads.

Design features: These stunning flowers are so versatile, I love them as a filler, especially in a meadow arrangement. You must hydrate them first as they experience cutting stress. These are also used beautifully in clusters of multilayers.