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Plant Profiles / Parsley
Best for potsOutdoorEdibleHerbToxic to pets

Parsley

Petroselinum crispum · Curly parsley, flat-leaf parsley
A fresh, leafy herb for nearly every dish. Grows happily in pots in sun or part shade.
Sun to part shadeLight
Keep moistWater
Very easyCare level

Care at a glance

Light

Sun to part shade
ShadeFull sun
Adaptable.

Water

Keep moist
DryWet
Regularly.

Humidity

Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.

Temperature

-5–30°C (23–86°F)
CoolWarm
Hardy.

Growth

Moderate
SlowFast
30 cm.

Soil

Rich mix
LeanRich
Potting mix.

Fertiliser

Monthly
RarelyOften
Liquid.

Pet safety

Toxic
SafeToxic
Large amounts photosensitise pets.

About this plant

Parsley comes from the Mediterranean. It's a biennial, flowering in its second year. Flat-leaf has stronger flavour.

Best spots

Herb pots, windowsills and balconies.

Plant facts

Botanical namePetroselinum crispum
FamilyApiaceae
OriginMediterranean
Plant typeBiennial herb
Mature size30 cm
Growth rateModerate
FlowersYellow umbels
ToxicityMild
PropagationSeed

Seasonal care calendar

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Plant
Harvest
PlantHarvest

Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.

Troubleshooting

BoltingSecond year.
YellowingHungry.
CaterpillarsHand pick.
Slow germinationSoak seed.
WiltingDry.

Common questions

Harvest?

Outer stems.

Perennial?

Biennial.

Shade?

Part.

Pet safe?

In small amounts.