Chervil Anthriscus cerefolium
ABOUT
Anthriscus cerefolium, more commonly known as chervil, is a delicate annual herb related to parsley. It is characterized by its light green foliage, with leaves that are thin and feathery, closely resembling those found on carrots. In fact, the leaf structure might be mistaken for flat-leaved parsley at a glance, but chervil's leaves are more finely divided and appear slightly paler and lacier. Chervil produces small, white flowers which are arranged in umbrella-like clusters known as umbels, typical for plants in this family. The overall appearance of the flowers is gentle and subtle, contributing to the plant's airy and ethereal visual quality. During its life cycle, this herb forms a long, slender taproot akin to that of a carrot, though it is not typically harvested for this part. The visual appeal of chervil lies in its soft-textured, lush foliage and graceful blooms, making it a popular choice for garnishes and decorative purposes in culinary applications as well as in gardens where it can create a soft, ferny undergrowth.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Apiaceae
Synonyms
Chervil, Garden Chervil, French Parsley, Sweet Cicely
Common names
Cerefolium cerefolium, Cerefolium sativum, Selinum cerefolium, Chaerefolium sativum, Chaerophyllum sativum, Anthriscus longirostris, Anthriscus sativa, Carum cerefolium.
ToxicityTo humans
Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium) is generally considered safe for human consumption and is not known to be toxic. It is commonly used as an herb in cooking, similar to parsley, and does not pose a risk when ingested in normal food quantities. There have been no significant reports of poisoning or adverse effects in humans due to consuming chervil in culinary uses.
To pets
Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium) is also not known to be toxic to pets. It is not commonly reported to cause any serious issues if pets consume small amounts of the plant. However, like any plant material, if ingested in large quantities, it could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, simply due to the novelty and fiber content. It is always advisable to monitor your pet's reaction to any new food items and consult with a veterinarian if any concerning symptoms arise.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
0.5-1 feet (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary Use: Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium) is often used as a seasoning in cooking, especially in French cuisine, where it is one of the fines herbes.
- Nutritional Content: Chervil contains vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, calcium, and iron, which are beneficial to a balanced diet.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its delicate, lace-like leaves, chervil can be used to enhance the visual presentation of dishes in gourmet cooking.
- Companion Planting: Chervil may aid the growth of other plants in gardens due to its alleged ability to repel pests when used in companion planting strategies.
- Garden Aroma: Chervil emits a mild, pleasant aroma that can contribute to a more enjoyable garden environment.
- Habitat for Wildlife: As a flowering herb, chervil can attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, which are important for pollination.
- Soil Improvement: Chervil might be used in crop rotation or as a green manure to enrich the soil and improve its structure.
- Culinary Garnish: Apart from its flavor, chervil's delicate leaves are used as an attractive garnish for a variety of dishes.
Medical Properties- Diuretic: Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium) has historically been considered to have diuretic properties, which can help promote the production and excretion of urine.
- Digestive Aid: The plant has been used in traditional medicine to aid digestion and help relieve gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Mild Stimulant: Chervil is sometimes regarded as a mild stimulant for the body's systems.
- Anti-inflammatory: It may possess anti-inflammatory properties that could help in reducing inflammation.
- Expectorant: Chervil has been used to help loosen phlegm and ease congestion in the respiratory system.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Anthriscus cerefolium, commonly known as chervil, can be used as a microgreen in gourmet dishes, adding a subtle flavor as well as decorative appeal.
- In the garden, chervil can act as a companion plant, helping to repel pests from crops such as radishes and improving the growth and flavor of lettuce and spinach when planted nearby.
- Chervil's delicate leaves can be added to ice cubes to create an aesthetically pleasing element in refreshing summer beverages.
- The plant can serve as a natural deodorizer when the leaves are simmered in water, releasing a gentle aroma that can freshen up the kitchen.
- Farmers in the past have used chervil as a forage crop for feeding rabbits and poultry, due to its nutritional content and palatability.
- Chervil tea made from the leaves can be used as a gentle rinse for brightening blonde hair or providing a lustrous sheen.
- The leaves can be used in composting, where they act as a 'green' material, contributing nitrogen to the compost mix and aiding in decomposition.
- Artists and crafters sometimes incorporate chervil leaves into their papermaking process to create decorative paper with natural leaf imprints.
- Fresh chervil sprigs can be used in flower arrangements, bringing a delicate, fern-like texture and a refreshing aroma to bouquets.
- Chervil infusion can be used as a natural spray for plants, providing them with a mild fertilizer and helping to ward off certain pests.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiChervil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityChervil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Joy - Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium) is often associated with joy, perhaps due to its bright, feathery leaves and delicate flavor, which can add a burst of happiness to culinary dishes.
- New life - Due to its role as a spring herb and its association with Easter traditions in some cultures, chervil symbolizes new life and rebirth.
- Youth - Chervil's delicate nature and association with spring can also symbolize youthfulness and freshness.
- Gourmet pleasure - As an herb used frequently in gourmet cooking, particularly French cuisine, chervil can represent culinary delight and the pleasures of fine food.
WaterChervil requires consistent moisture, so it should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Typically, the plant will need watering once every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the climate and soil drainage. During dry periods or in warmer climates, watering may need to be more frequent to prevent the soil from drying out completely. You should provide about 1 inch of water each time you water, which translates to roughly 0.6 gallons for a square foot of soil. To avoid disease, water at the base of the plant rather than from above.
LightChervil thrives best in partial shade to full sun conditions. It should be placed in a spot where it receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates to prevent it from bolting. Although chervil can tolerate direct sun in cooler climates, too much strong sunlight can cause the leaves to wilt.
TemperatureChervil prefers cooler temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 70°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 25°F for short periods but is not frost-tolerant in the long term. Chervil's growth is optimal when temperatures remain below 75°F, and it can start bolting if the temperature consistently exceeds this range.
PruningRegular harvesting of chervil leaves encourages bushier growth and prevents bolting, which is when the plant starts to flower and go to seed. Pruning can be done as needed by snipping off the tops of the stems with clean scissors or shears. The best time for pruning chervil is just before it reaches its flowering stage, typically in late spring to early summer, to ensure a continuous supply of fresh leaves.
CleaningAs needed
SoilChervil (Anthriscus cerefolium) prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter with a neutral pH between 6.5 and 7.5. A general-purpose potting mix amended with compost and a bit of sand for improved drainage can make the best soil mix for chervil.
RepottingChervil, being an annual herb, does not typically require repotting as it is often sown directly into the garden or container where it will grow for its single growing season.
Humidity & MistingChervil thrives in moderate humidity levels; excessive dryness can be detrimental. Aim for a relative humidity of about 45-65%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place chervil near a sunny window and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Sow in fertile soil, partial shade, keep moist.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA.
Life cycleAnthriscus cerefolium, commonly known as chervil, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates, usually in early spring when the soil is moist and temperatures are cool. Seedlings emerge with a pair of true leaves, and the plant quickly develops a rosette of lacy, delicate green leaves. As it enters the vegetative stage, chervil forms a bushy herb with a rich supply of aromatic leaves that can be harvested for culinary use. With sufficient light and time, it moves into the bolting stage, where a flower stalk grows, producing small white flowers organized into umbrella-shaped clusters known as umbels. After pollination, typically by insects, seeds form and ripen. The plant then dies off, completing its annual cycle, while the seeds drop to the ground or are collected to produce new chervil plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagating Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium) is by seed. Chervil seeds should be sown directly into the ground in late winter or early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked. The ideal time is just after the last frost when soil temperatures are around 45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (7 to 10 degrees Celsius). Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep in well-prepared soil that is loose, rich, and has good drainage. Chervil prefers a partially shaded spot as it tends to bolt to seed if exposed to too much heat. Keep the soil moist until germination, which usually occurs within 7 to 14 days. Thin the seedlings to about 6 inches (15 centimeters) apart to allow for proper growth.
