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Annual BiennialHerbs - Culinary

Anthriscus cerefolium

chervil

An upright annual herb approximately 60cm tall, cultivated for its aromatic leaves. Aniseed-flavoured, lacy, 2- to 3-pinnate leaves. with ovate leaflets are 3-5 cm large. Umbels of small white flowers, 5-7cm across are borne in summer. Chervil is commonly used to season fish dishes and sauces

Other common names
common chervil
garden chervil
see morehedge parsley
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer White Green
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Apiaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

Anthriscus can be annuals, biennials or perennials, with fern-like leaves and umbels of tiny white flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe, W Asia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in any well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Water plants in dry spells to deter premature flowering. See chervil cultivation for more advice.

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in spring and early summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Harvest leaves regularly to promote new, fresh growth.

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs, snails and caterpillar damage on young growth

Diseases

Generally disease- free

Get involved

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