PARSLEY  , a

hardy biennal herb known botanically as Petroselinum sativum (natural order Umbelliferae), the leaves of which are much used for garnishing and flavouring . It occurs as a garden escape in waste places in Britain and it is doubtful if it is known anywhere as a truly wild plant; A. de Candolle, however (Origin of Cultivated Plants) considers it to be wild in the Mediterranean region . It grows best in a partially shaded position, in good soil of considerable depth and not too light; a thick dressing of manure should be given before sowing . For a continuous supply three sowings should be made, as early in February as the weather permits, in April or early in May and in July—the last for the winter supply in a sheltered position with southern exposure . Sow thinly in drills from 12 to 15 in. apart and about 1 in. deep; thin out to 3 in. and finally to 6 in. each . In winter the plants should be protected by frames or hand-glasses . The curled and messy-leaved varieties are preferable . The Hamburg or turnip-rooted variety is grown for the root, which is cut up and used for flavouring .