PARSLEY DOUBLE CURLED Petroselinum Crispum
Total Page:16
File Type:pdf, Size:1020Kb
PARSLEY DOUBLE CURLED Petroselinum crispum Characteristics • Type: Annual Herb • Bloom Time: Seasonal bloomer • Family: Apiaceae • Bloom Description: Greenish-yellow • Native Range: Greece, Yugoslavia • Sun: Full sun to part shade • Zone: 2 to 11 • Water: Medium Maintenance: Low • Height: 9”-12” • Attracts: Butterflies • Spread: 9”-12” • Flower: Showy Culture Parsley is a biennial. It is easily grown in average, consistently moist, well-drained soils in full sun to light shade. It prefers rich soils. Do not allow soils to dry out. Plants perform best in cool summer climates, and sometimes tend to languish in the hot and humid summers of the deep South. Starter plants may be planted 8-12" apart in the garden around the last spring frost date. Plants may also be grown from seed, but this is more difficult because germination is slow and usually uneven. Seed may be started indoors about 6-8 weeks before last spring frost date. Seed may also be started outdoors in the garden as of last spring frost date. Additional seed may be planted in the garden later in spring and in mid-summer. If desired, bring plants indoors in fall before first frost for overwintering. Place pots in a cool sunny window or under lights. Noteworthy Characteristics Petroselinum crispum is a culinary herb that is native to Europe and the Mediterranean. It is now grown world-wide for its aromatic edible leaves which may be used fresh or dried in soups, salads and a wide variety of other food dishes. It is popularly used as a garnish. It typically grows in a clump to 12" tall and as wide. Leaves remain harvestable until temperatures drop into the low 20s F., but will remain strong throughout winter in warm winter climates. Plants will bloom in the 2nd year by sending up stalks to 2-3' tall bearing compound umbels of greenish-yellow flowers. Leaves lose good flavor in the second year when plants are in flower. Parsley is a larval food plant for the black swallowtail butterfly. Problems No serious insect or disease problems. Septoria leaf spot and stem rot. Carrot weevil, flea beetles, leafhoppers and tarnished plant bugs. Garden Uses Herb gardens. Edging. Containers. Popular addition to cooking. Frequently used as a fresh garnish. Attractive landscape plant. Hanging baskets. Courtesy of Missouri Botanical Society Plant Finder .