Scientific Name: Anthriscus cerefolium
Common Names: Chervil, French Parsley, Garden Chervil
Description
Chervil is a delicate annual herb closely related to parsley, with a mild, slightly sweet, and anise-like flavor. The plant has light green, feathery leaves that resemble carrot tops and can grow up to 12-24 inches tall. It produces small white flowers in umbrella-like clusters, typical of plants in the Apiaceae family. Chervil is often used in French cuisine and is one of the key ingredients in the classic fines herbes blend, along with parsley, tarragon, and chives.
Uses
Culinary: Chervil is used to add a subtle flavor to salads, soups, sauces, and egg dishes. It's particularly popular in French cooking, where it is often used fresh at the end of cooking to retain its delicate flavor. The herb pairs well with poultry, fish, and vegetables and is also used in compound butters.
Medicinal: Chervil has mild diuretic and digestive properties and has been traditionally used in herbal remedies to soothe digestion and improve appetite. It is also said to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Ornamental: Chervil’s delicate leaves and small flowers make it an attractive addition to herb gardens, borders, and containers.
Growing Instructions
1. Climate and Soil Requirements:
Chervil prefers cool, shaded environments and does not tolerate heat well. It grows best in spring and fall when temperatures are mild.
The herb thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. It does well in partial shade, which helps prevent bolting in warmer weather.
2. Planting:
Seeds: Chervil is best grown from seeds, as it does not transplant well due to its delicate roots. Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest.
Depth: Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep and cover lightly with soil.
Spacing: Space seeds or seedlings about 6-12 inches apart. Thin plants as they grow to ensure good air circulation.
3. Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Chervil prefers evenly moist conditions and will benefit from regular watering, especially during dry periods.
4. Fertilization:
Chervil is not a heavy feeder. Enriching the soil with compost at planting time is usually sufficient. If needed, a light feeding with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season will help maintain healthy growth.
5. Maintenance:
Bolting: Chervil can bolt quickly in warm weather, producing flowers and going to seed. To prolong the harvest, plant in cool, shaded spots, and keep the soil moist.
Pests/Diseases: Chervil is generally pest-free but can occasionally attract aphids. Good garden hygiene and avoiding overcrowding can help prevent pests and diseases.
6. Harvesting:
Begin harvesting chervil leaves once the plant is about 6 inches tall. Regularly pinch off the outer leaves to encourage new growth.
Use fresh leaves for the best flavor, as chervil does not dry well and loses its flavor quickly after harvest.
7. Propagation:
Chervil self-seeds readily if allowed to flower, so it can come back the following season. To control self-seeding, trim flowers before they set seed.
8. Companion Planting:
Chervil can be planted alongside other herbs and vegetables like lettuce and radishes. It is said to repel aphids, making it a beneficial companion plant.