How to Grow Curly Parsley
Wikimedia Commons
Curly Parsley
Petroselinum crispum var. crispum
herbCurly parsley is a biennial herb grown primarily for its decorative, finely divided bright green leaves that form dense, mounding plants. It is one of the most popular culinary herbs, valued for its mild, slightly sweet flavor and ornamental appearance in gardens and as a garnish. The plant produces small, inconspicuous yellowish-green flowers in its second year before flowering consumes energy.
Looking for a specific variety?
When should you plant Curly Parsley in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Curly Parsley timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Curly Parsley
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Curly Parsley
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Curly Parsley dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Hardy in zones 2-10; best grown as a cool-season crop in zones 6-9
Sign up free to see if Curly Parsley grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Curly Parsley timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
2-4 weeksSeeds sprout slowly (2-3 weeks), producing two small rounded cotyledons, then developing first true leaves with slight serration
Keep soil consistently moist; maintain 60-70°F; germination is slow, so be patient. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once true leaves appear
Vegetative Growth
6-12 weeksPlant develops increasingly frilly, deeply divided curled green leaves on sturdy stems forming a dense, bushy mound
Water regularly and maintain consistent moisture. Pinch out central stem tips to encourage bushier growth. Remove any flowering stems that form in year one
Established Plant
Continuous through seasonPlant reaches mature size with abundant, full foliage; leaves are bright green, highly ornamental, and at peak flavor and tenderness
Continue regular harvesting by pinching outer leaves to promote continued growth and delay bolting. Apply balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks for sustained vigor
Flowering (Year 2 or Late Season)
4-8 weeksPlant produces a tall central flower stalk with small yellowish-green, clustered umbrella-shaped flowers (umbels); foliage becomes coarser and less flavorful
Remove flower stalks promptly to maintain foliage quality and prevent self-seeding. If saving seeds, allow some flowers to mature fully
Decline
End of growing seasonAs true biennial completes its cycle or as annual approaches end of season, plant becomes woody, flavor diminishes, and new leaf production slows
Plan to replant or allow controlled self-seeding for next season. In cool climates, fall planting may provide winter/spring harvests
Common Pests
-
Hand-pick caterpillars; allow some damage as these become beautiful swallowtail butterflies; neem oil or spinosad if severe
-
Increase humidity and spray leaves with water; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; ensure adequate watering
-
Spray with strong water stream; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage beneficial insects
-
and
Hand-pick, especially at night; use beer traps or copper tape; create barriers; maintain dry mulch
-
Yellow sticky traps; spray neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase air circulation
Uses
Fresh Herb & Garnish
CulinaryCurly parsley is prized as a mild, slightly grassy garnish for countless dishes and adds subtle flavor to salads, soups, and sauces. Its decorative curled appearance makes it ideal for plate presentation in professional and home kitchens. [source]
Chimichurri & Herbal Condiments
CulinaryA primary ingredient in chimichurri sauce, parsley sauces, and fresh herb blends, providing both flavor and vibrant color to condiments and finished dishes. [source]
Digestive & Nutritional Support
MedicinalRich in vitamins K and C, curly parsley has traditionally been used to aid digestion, support bone health, and provide antioxidants. Fresh parsley may help freshen breath and support overall nutritional intake. [source]
Natural Air Freshener & Breath Freshener
HouseholdThe volatile oils in parsley can freshen breath and indoor air quality. Fresh sprigs placed in water or rooms provide natural aromatic benefits. [source]
Butterfly & Pollinator Support
WildlifeCurly parsley serves as the host plant for swallowtail butterfly caterpillars and provides pollen and nectar for numerous pollinators when allowed to flower. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting when plant has 6+ true leaves (about 70-90 days); pinch outer stems and leaves from the base of the plant, leaving inner growth intact for continued production. Harvest regularly to promote bushier growth and delay bolting. Morning harvest provides optimal flavor. Curly parsley can be harvested multiple times throughout the growing season; in warm climates, spring and fall harvests are preferable as plants bolt quickly in summer heat. Leaves are most tender and flavorful before flowering
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Curly parsley seeds have a reputation for slow germination and can take 2-3 weeks to sprout; soaking seeds for 24 hours or even pouring boiling water over them can improve germination rates.
- 🌱 In ancient Greek times, parsley was associated with death and funerals; warriors wore wreaths of parsley for strength, but superstition suggested that only those who were 'wicked' could grow it successfully.
- 🌱 The bright green caterpillars of swallowtail butterflies that feed on parsley are often welcomed by gardeners despite the defoliation, as they transform into stunning black and yellow butterflies.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Curly Parsley planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Curly Parsley seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Curly Parsley timeline →