Parsley
Petroselinum crispum
Family: Apiaceae · Genus: Petroselinum
Parsley is a biennial herb in the carrot family, widely used as a garnish and flavouring. Available in curly and flat-leaf (Italian) varieties. Takes a long time to germinate but is a hardy plant once established. Native to the Mediterranean.
Soil Temperature
10°C – 30°C
Spacing
20 – 30 cm
Harvest
9–19 weeks
Sowing
Easy to grow. Sow in garden.
Growing Schedule Zone 8b
Companions
Avoid Growing Near
Growing Notes
Takes a long time to germinate, about 3 - 5 weeks before the seedlings appear. Grows to about 20 - 30 cm until it flowers when the stems will shoot up to about 1 m. The useful leaves disappear when parsley flowers so it is best to have some more seedlings ready to plant. Will self seed and produce plenty of new plants every year. Can survive snow and light frosts.
Culinary Hints
Use the leaves and stems to add flavour and colour. Can be cooked in dishes such as ratatouille. Traditionally used in white sauce.