AppearanceTorilis japonica is a biennial herb that grows 2-4 ft. (0.6-1.2 m) tall when flowering. Foliage First-year rosettes are low, parsley-like and green into fall. The stem leaves are alternate, fern-like, 2-5 in. (5.1-12.7 cm) long and slightly hairy. Flowers Flowers are tiny, white, 5-petaled and clustered in small, flat-topped umbels. Flowering occurs from June to September. Fruit The fruit are small, cylindrical and covered with hooked hairs that attach to clothing or fur. Ecological ThreatTorilis japonica threatens woodlands and savannas. Spreading hedge parsley (Torilis arvensis) is very similar and invasive.