Petroselinum crispum ‘Afrodite’ Seeds | Afrodite Curly Parsley
LATIN NAME: Petroselinum crispum ‘Afrodite’
COMMON NAME: Afrodite Curly Parsley
Plant Profile
Petroselinum crispum ‘Afrodite’, commonly known as Afrodite Curly Parsley, is a species with a long record in gardens. All of this makes Afrodite Curly Parsley a satisfying plant to grow and to get to know.
Science & Biotechnology
Like other members of the Petroselinum group, Petroselinum crispum ‘Afrodite’ draws steady attention from botanists and plant breeders, who value the genus both as a subject of research and as a source of garden-worthy material. Parsley more broadly has also been studied for its high concentration of vitamin K and apigenin, a flavonoid compound of interest in nutritional and pharmacological research. The upshot for anyone sowing it is reassurance — cultivated stock of this plant has a long, well-documented track record.
Uses & Benefits
Afrodite Curly Parsley works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Afrodite parsley is grown primarily as a fresh culinary herb and garnish, its tightly curled leaves holding their shape and bright green colour particularly well on plate compared with flatter-leaved parsley types. It is also a useful companion plant in vegetable gardens, and its second-year flowers, if plant is allowed to overwinter, provide a valuable early nectar source for small beneficial insects. Mature plants need little attention in a well-chosen position.
Parsley is far more than garnish: exceptionally rich in vitamin K, vitamin C and apigenin, it has folk records as a diuretic and digestive, and its seed oil is a professional flavor and fragrance material.
Growing from Seed
Seed is the natural starting point for Afrodite Curly Parsley, and the process is uncomplicated. Parsley seed can benefit from a brief soak in warm water before sowing to soften its naturally hard outer coat. Sow into a loose, well-drained mix and keep it consistently moist; bright light and cool to moderate temperatures suit young seedlings well once they are up. Use a fine, free-draining seed compost, scatter the seed evenly, cover it lightly and hold it just moist in good light. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
Among the Petroselinum group, it is one of the more distinctive species in cultivation. Plant it in sun with drainage to its liking and the rest is easy.
Related Reading
If Afrodite Curly Parsley appeals to you, these related plants are worth a look: