Curled Chervil is a delicate, cool-season annual herb with finely divided, fern-like leaves and a subtle anise-like flavor. Often called “gourmet parsley,” it is a key component of French fines herbes and best used fresh in cooking.

Quick Facts

• Botanical name: Anthriscus cerefolium

• Common name: Curled Chervil

• Plant type: Annual herb

• Days to maturity: 60–70 days

• Height: 12–24 inches

• Sun exposure: Partial shade (tolerates morning sun)

• Hardiness zones: USDA 3–9 (grown as a cool-season annual)

• Spacing: 6–9 inches apart

When to Plant

• Early spring: Sow as soon as soil can be worked

• Late summer/early fall: For a fall crop in cooler regions

• Germination time: 7–14 days at 55–65°F (13–18°C)

How to Plant

1. Soil preparation: Rich, moist, well-drained soil with pH 6.0–7.0

2. Sowing depth: 1/4 inch deep

3. Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy

4. Fertilizing: Light feeding with compost or balanced organic fertilizer if soil is poor

Growing Tips

• Prefers cool, shaded environments; bolts quickly in heat

• Best grown in spring or fall in most regions

• Can be grown indoors on a bright windowsill

• Direct sowing is preferred; does not transplant well

Harvesting

• Begin harvesting once plants reach 6 inches tall

• Pick young leaves as needed; use immediately for best flavor

• Frequent harvesting encourages bushier growth

• Avoid harvesting after flowering, as flavor declines

Culinary Use

• Adds a mild anise or licorice note to salads, soups, eggs, poultry, sauces, and herb blends

• A key component in fines herbes (with parsley, chives, and tarragon)

• Best used fresh; flavor is lost when dried or cooked for long

Companion Plants

Grows well with lettuce, spinach, chives, and radishes
Provides gentle shade and ground cover for other cool-season crops

Why Grow Curled Chervil?

Curled Chervil is a refined herb for the culinary gardener, offering delicate texture and sophisticated flavor. Easy to grow in cool, shaded spots, it thrives where other herbs may struggle. A perfect addition to spring herb gardens or windowsill collections.