Italian Flat-Leaf Parsley
Petroselinum crispum var. neapolitanum
Family: Apiaceae
Italian flat-leaf parsley has a stronger, more robust flavor than curly parsley. It is the preferred type for cooking and is essential in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and South American cuisines.
Days to Harvest
65-85 days
Sun Needs
Full Sun to Part Shade (4-6+ hours)
moderate
Germination Temp
65°F optimal
Start Indoors
8 weeks before last frost
Germination
14-28 days
Seed Depth
1/4 inch
Light to Germinate
No
đź’ˇ Tip: Soak seeds in warm water overnight. Germination is slow but reliable.
Soil Type
Rich, moist, well-draining soil
pH Range
6 - 7
Spacing
8-10 inches between plants
⚠️ Avoid planting near:
History
Italian parsley originated in the Mediterranean region and has been cultivated for thousands of years as both a culinary and medicinal herb.
Nutritional Benefits
- âś“Very high in Vitamin K
- âś“Excellent source of Vitamins A and C
- âś“Contains iron and calcium
Optimal Growing Temp
50°F - 70°F
Italian parsley prefers cool to moderate temperatures. Best flavor in spring and fall. Tolerates light frost. Bolts in prolonged heat.
Survival Range
25°F - 85°F
Can survive these temperatures
Frost Note: Tolerates light frosts (to 25°F). Can overwinter with protection in zones 6-7. Biennial that bolts second year.
Best USDA Zones
Humidity
40-60%
Tolerates moderate humidity. Ensure good air circulation.
Height
18-24 inches
Spread
12-18 inches
Growth Habit
clumping
Germination
14-28 days
Very slow germination. Soak seeds overnight. Italian parsley germinates slightly faster than curly.
Seedling Stage
Duration: 4-6 weeks
True leaves: First true leaves are flat and divided with stronger flavor than curly type.
Transplant ready: Transplant when 3-4 inches tall. Handle taproot carefully.
Vegetative Growth
Duration: First year continuous
Forms rosettes of flat, deeply divided leaves. More vigorous than curly parsley. Harvest outer leaves regularly.
Flowering
Timing: Second year spring/summer
Duration: 3-4 weeks
Umbel flowers attract beneficial insects. Leaves become bitter after flowering.
Harvest Maturity
Timing: 70-90 days to harvest
- Full rosette
- Vigorous growth
- Strong parsley aroma
Per Plant
3-5 cups fresh leaves per plant. Italian parsley is more productive than curly.
Per Square Foot
4-6 plants per square foot
Harvest Frequency
Harvest outer leaves every 1-2 weeks.
Factors Affecting Yield
- •Cool weather for best flavor
- •Regular harvest
- •Consistent moisture
Seedling Stage
Keep consistently moist during germination.
Established Plants
Water when top inch dry. Every 3-4 days.
During Fruiting
N/A—harvest before flowering.
Preferred Method
Water at soil level. Consistent moisture important.
Pro Tips
- Needs consistent moisture
- Mulch well
- Morning watering
Feeding Schedule
Planting
Compost
Once
Growing
Liquid fertilizer
Every 3-4 weeks
Organic Options
Monthly feeding supports continuous harvest.
Minimum Size
8 inch pot
Recommended Size
10-12 inch pot
Depth Required
At least 10-12 inches for taproot
Best Varieties for Containers
Container Tips
- Excellent in containers
- Deep pots for taproot
- Keep moist but well-drained
- Winter indoors for year-round harvest
Plant Every
Every 3-4 weeks
Sowings/Season
2-3 plantings
Duration
Spring and late summer
Tips
- Spring and fall sowings for year-round harvest
