Delicate, feathery foliage and a subtle flavour reminiscent of parsley with hints of anise make Chervil a favourite culinary herb. Often used in French cuisine, this fast-growing annual herb is perfect for kitchen gardens, raised beds, containers, and herb planters. Its fresh green leaves can be harvested regularly throughout the growing season, while its small white flowers provide additional interest and attract beneficial insects.
Chervil, commonly grown as a culinary herb, is prized for its mild flavour and attractive fern-like foliage. Unlike many Mediterranean herbs, it prefers cooler conditions and can thrive in partial shade, making it an excellent choice for British gardens. It is particularly useful for extending herb harvests into spring and autumn when other herbs may be less productive.
Annual Herb
Edible, Culinary Herb, Pollinator Friendly, Fast Growing
Flowers: June to August
Foliage: March to October
Scientific Name
Anthriscus cerefolium (little hedge chervil)
Common Name
Chervil
Garden Chervil
Origin
Native to the Caucasus region, parts of southern Europe, and western Asia. It has been cultivated as a culinary herb throughout Europe for centuries.
Pruning Tips
Harvest regularly to encourage fresh growth and delay flowering. Remove flower stems if you wish to prolong leaf production, although allowing some flowers to develop can benefit pollinators and provide seed for future sowings.
Wildlife Value
The small white flowers attract hoverflies, parasitic wasps, and other beneficial insects that can help support a healthy garden ecosystem.
Positioning
Prefers partial shade or a position with morning sun and afternoon shade, particularly during summer. Ideal for herb gardens, raised beds, kitchen gardens, and containers.
Water
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during warm weather. Chervil can bolt quickly if allowed to dry out for extended periods.
Soil
Prefers fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. Benefits from soil enriched with garden compost before planting.
Food
Generally requires little feeding. Incorporating compost into the soil before planting is usually sufficient for healthy growth throughout the season.
Pet-safe
Generally regarded as non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses.
Sprouts Top Tips
Sow little and often from spring through late summer for a continuous supply of fresh leaves. Chervil is at its best when harvested young, before flowering begins.
Did You Know?
Chervil is one of the traditional herbs used in the classic French herb blend fines herbes, alongside parsley, tarragon, and chives. Its delicate flavour is best enjoyed fresh, as much of its aroma is lost during cooking.
Edible Plant VAT Note
As a culinary herb intended for food production, Chervil plants are generally zero-rated for VAT in the UK when sold for food use, unlike most ornamental garden plants. This makes it one of several edible plants that may qualify for zero-rating, alongside many vegetable plants and fruiting crops.
