Garden Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium)

Garden Chervil

Anthriscus cerefolium

Delicate fern-like foliage carries a subtle anise aroma. Edible culinary herb; common names: French parsley, garden chervil.

Partial sun
2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Partial sun to dappled shade; avoid intense midday direct sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid allowing the root zone to dry out completely
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Temperature Tolerates light frosts; thrives in cool 10–20°C conditions and bolts quickly in extreme heat
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Finely divided, fern-like, bright green, soft texture with subtle anise scent
  • Flower: Tiny white umbel clusters, flat-topped inflorescences
  • Stem: Slender, hollow, green to pale brown, branching at upper nodes
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; water when the top 1 cm of soil feels dry

Fertilization

Light monthly feeding with diluted organic fertilizer. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote leaf growth rather than flowering

Banana peel tea:Soak chopped banana peels in water for 3 days; dilute 1:10 for root drench to avoid over-fertilizing delicate roots
Pruning
  • Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage continuous new growth from the center
  • Remove emerging flower stalks promptly to prolong foliage production and prevent bolting
  • Trim yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and airflow
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no adverse effects reported

Humans: Non-toxic; safe for human consumption as a culinary herb

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Culinary herb for soups, salads, and sauces; ornamental fern-like foliage for garden borders