Anthriscus cerefolium
herbChervil, sometimes called French parsley, is a delicate cool-season annual herb with fine, fern-like leaves and a subtle flavor of parsley with a hint of anise. A classic component of the French fines herbes blend, it grows 1 to 2 ft, thrives in the cool and shade most herbs dislike, and bolts quickly in summer heat.
Sun
partial shade
Water
Every 3 days
Harvest
~50 days
Difficulty
easy
Lifecycle
annual
One season, then done
Spacing
6-9 in. apart
Planting Depth
Seed 1/4 in. deep
Soil pH
6.0-6.7
Soil Type
Rich, moist, well-draining
Hardiness Zones
Zones 3 – 9
Grown as an annual — this range is its winter hardiness, but you can grow it for a single season in any zone.
When to Fertilize
Light feed at sowing
Fertilizer
Balanced or compost; low needs
Sow chervil seed directly where it will grow, as its taproot resents transplanting, barely covering it and keeping the soil moist. It grows best in the cool of spring and fall and actually prefers partial shade and even, moist soil; summer heat and drought make it bolt. Sow in succession every two to three weeks for a continuous supply, and site it under taller crops for cooling shade. Pinch out the flower stalks to extend the leaf harvest.
Direct sow
Apr 1
Projected first harvest
May 21
Good neighbors that attract beneficial insects or deter pests
Proactive ways to stop trouble before it starts — tap a name with an arrow for its full guide
The lacy flowers draw hoverflies whose larvae eat aphids; rinse off any heavy clusters
Common in the cool, damp conditions chervil likes; use grit, traps, or handpick at night
Begin cutting outer leaves once plants are about 6 inches tall, before flower stalks form, since flavor declines at bolting. Harvest frequently and sow successively every few weeks for a steady supply. Use chervil fresh and add it at the very end of cooking, as heat and drying quickly destroy its delicate flavor.
One of the French fines herbes, chervil has a delicate parsley-anise flavor used to finish eggs, fish, chicken, and spring vegetables. The leaves contribute vitamin C and antioxidants, and the lacy white flower umbels draw hoverflies and other tiny beneficial insects.
For educational and informational purposes only — HomeSown is not medical, health, or other professional advice. Always positively identify any plant before handling or eating it; some plants, and some parts of otherwise-edible plants, are toxic. Consult a qualified professional before consuming or otherwise using any plant, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a health condition.