Parsley Piert

A small annual low growing weed, with small fan shaped leaves having 3 lobes, typically less than 10mm in length. It can be found on a range of soil types, from acid to calcareous, but only in open situations, having a dislike of shady conditions. It is more common on sports turf surfaces which are dry, slightly acidic and which are nutritionally poor, including those which have been regularly mown short, such as on bowling greens, golf greens and finer lawns. It flowers during April to October, with green flowers; these are actually only 4 sepals, there being no petals. Its scientific name is Aphanes arvensis. There is a similar species which is only found on sandy acidic soils which is called Slender Parsley Piert (Aphanes australis).