curly leaf

Curly leaf parsley (Petroselinum crispum crispum) originates from the Mediterranean region. It produces very finely divided, tightly curled leaves that make for an attractive, decorative garnish, and it serves as a host plant for black swallowtail butterfly caterpillars. Planted in fall, it thrives through winter as a cool-season crop, then flowers, produces seed, and dies in late spring. Uses include garnishes, salads, soups, and omelettes.