Garden Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium), sometimes called Gourmet Parsley, is a refined culinary herb known for its mild fresh flavor with subtle anise notes. This non-GMO variety is a cool-season favorite used by home gardeners and gourmet growers for its tender fern-like leaves and fast, dependable growth. Garden Chervil excels in containers, raised beds, and kitchen gardens, offering quick harvests and thriving in cooler temperatures.
Features
- Mild, fresh, parsley-like flavor with a hint of anise
- Non-GMO gourmet culinary variety
- Cool-season green ideal for spring and fall
- Fast-growing with tender fern-like foliage
- Excellent for containers, raised beds, and compact garden spaces
- Easy to grow and beginner friendly
- High-quality leaves suited for salads, fresh dishes, and garnishes
Specifications
- Common Name: Garden Chervil, Gourmet Chervil
- Scientific Name: Anthriscus cerefolium
- Plant Type: Annual (cool-season)
- USDA Zones: 3–10
- Season: Early spring and fall
- Height: 12–24 inches
- Leaf Type: Fine-textured, fern-like green foliage
- Flavor: Mild, fresh, anise-like
- Bloom Color: White (if allowed to bolt)
- Heirloom: Yes
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Organic: Not certified organic
- Light Requirements: Partial shade to full sun; prefers cooler temperatures
- Soil Preference: Moist, fertile, well-drained soil
- Water Needs: Moderate
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Days to Harvest: 40–60 days
- Cold Tolerance: Excellent
- Heat Tolerance: Low; tends to bolt in hot weather
- Plant Spacing: 6–9 inches
- Seed Longevity: 1–2 years stored in cool, dry conditions
Planting Guide
- Sowing Method: Direct sow outdoors or start indoors in cool conditions.
- Seed Preparation: No pre-treatment required.
- When to Plant:
- Early spring as soon as soil can be worked
- Late summer to early fall for autumn harvest
- Sowing Depth: 1/8 inch.
- Germination Time: 7–14 days depending on temperature.
- Light Requirements: Partial shade preferred; full sun in cool climates.
- Soil Conditions: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist for best leaf quality.
- Maintenance:
- Harvest young leaves regularly
- Succession sow every 2–3 weeks for continuous supply
- Provide shade during warm spells to reduce bolting