Petroselinum crispum 'Smaragd' – compact and aromatic curly parsley

Petroselinum crispum , commonly known as parsley, is one of the most beloved culinary herbs and indispensable in gardens and kitchens. The cultivar 'Smaragd' is known for its dark green, glossy, curly leaves and aromatic flavor, making it an excellent choice for both home cooks and professional chefs.

'Smaragd' combines ornamental value and culinary quality: its compact, bushy growth makes it ideal for herb beds, pots, and patios, while the leaves add an intense, fresh parsley flavor to soups, salads, sauces, and stews.

Description and features

Petroselinum crispum 'Smaragd' is a biennial plant, although it's often grown as an annual. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and deeply curled, making them not only flavorful but also a decorative element in the garden or on a plate.

The compact, bushy rosette makes for an easy-to-harvest plant, while the aromatic leaves are suitable for fresh preparations or as a garnish. In its second year, the plant can bloom with small, yellow-green flowers, attractive to bees and other pollinators.

Cultivation and care

Petroselinum crispum 'Smaragd' is easy to grow, provided a few basic conditions are followed:

• Sowing: Sow directly outdoors from March to June, in rows or pots. Sow the seeds 0.5–1 cm deep and keep the soil slightly moist.

• Location: Sun to partial shade; full sun promotes a stronger flavour development.

• Soil: Well-drained, humus-rich, and slightly moist; enrich the soil with compost if necessary for optimal growth.

• Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods; the soil should not dry out completely.

• Harvest time: From 2–3 months after sowing; leaves can be picked regularly, which stimulates the plant to produce new leaf growth.

The compact growth of 'Smaragd' also makes it suitable for herb pots and balcony boxes, so you always have fresh parsley on hand.

Culinary applications

Petroselinum crispum 'Smaragd' is versatile in the kitchen:

• Fresh herbs – ideal for soups, sauces and pasta.

• Salads and dressings – gives a fresh, aromatic taste.

• Stews and vegetable dishes – enhances the natural flavors of ingredients.

• Decoration and garnish – curly leaves give dishes an elegant appearance.

• Pot and balcony plants – always harvest fresh for immediate culinary use.

Its compact growth and intense flavour make 'Smaragd' an indispensable addition to both traditional and modern dishes.