(Petroselinum crispum 'Hamburg Rooted')
Hamburg Rooted Parsley is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather biennial vegetable that is native to the Mediterranean region, but can be commonly found growing in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 10-16” and features flat green leaves and white, carrot shaped roots up to 10" long. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts hoverflies, predatory wasps, and tachinid flies, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, is used to flavor perfumes and repel insects, and is both edible and medicinal!
Genus: Petroselinum
Species: crispum
Variety: Hamburg Rooted Parsley
Native to: Greece, Morocco, Yugoslavia.
Introduced into: Albania, Argentina Northeast, Argentina South, Arkansas, Austria, Baleares, Baltic States, Belarus, Belgium, Bermuda, Brazil South, Bulgaria, California, Canary Is., Cape Provinces, Cape Verde, Central European Rus, Comoros, Connecticut, Corse, Costa Rica, Crozet Is., Czechoslovakia, Denmark, Dominican Republic, East European Russia, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Florida, France, Georgia, Germany, Gilbert Is., Great Britain, Guatemala, Gulf of Guinea Is., Haiti, Hawaii, Hungary, Idaho, Iowa, Iran, Ireland, Italy, Kansas, Kazakhstan, Kriti, Krym, Laos, Leeward Is., Libya, Louisiana, Madeira, Marianas, Marshall Is., Maryland, Massachusetts, Mauritius, Mexico Central, Michigan, Mississippi, Mongolia, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Newfoundland, North Carolina, Northwest European R, Norway, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Rhode I., Rodrigues, Romania, Réunion, Sardegna, Sicilia, Sinai, South Carolina, South European Russi, Spain, St.Helena, Sweden, Switzerland, Tadzhikistan, Texas, Trinidad-Tobago, Tristan da Cunha, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkey-in-Europe, Ukraine, Utah, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Washington.
Ease of Growing: Moderate
Grown as: Biennial
Days to Maturity: 78-80 days
Growing Habit: Bush
Hardiness: Tender. This cool weather biennial is hardy to frost and light freezes.
Crops: Spring Transplant, Spring
Growing Season: Long
Growing Conditions: Cold, Cool, Warm. Parsley prefers loose, moderately fertile soil with plenty of added organic matter. Water lightly.
Outdoor Growing Temp: 45°F - 75°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp: 50°F. Parsley takes a long time to germinate and does best in warm soil between 70˚- 85˚ F (it doesn't germinate well at higher temperatures).
Start Indoors: Yes
Start Outdoors: Yes
Light: Sun: min. 6 hours daily (Cold, Cool, Warm). Full sun or partial shade.
Water: Moderate. Parsley likes moist soil. If you think the plants might need water they probably do.
Feeder: Heavy. Parsley prefers a fertile soil with lots of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.
Suitability: Tolerates light frost, Needs summer shade
Small Gardens?: Yes
Containers?: Yes. Parsley is easy to grow in containers either individually or as a cut and come again crop. Choose a well-draining container that is at least 12" deep. Parsley is not picky about soil and does not need a lot of attention, but be sure to keep the soil from becoming overly wet. It is also important to provide access to a lot of sunshine.
Attracts beneficial insects?: Yes
Forage: Rabbits.
Maintenance: Low
Plant Height: 10-16"
Sow Depth: 0.25" to 0.75".
Spacing: 6-10"
Produces: flat green leaves and white, carrot shaped roots up to 10" long.
Hardiness Zone: 2-11
Soil Preparation
Soil pH: 5.5-7.0, Ideal 6.0-6.5. Parsley prefers a rich, well-drained soil.
Soil Preparation:
Standard Mix, 0.25 cups per plant, in top 6" of soil, 1 time: Parsley is a fairly hungry plant and can produce a lot of foliage in the course of its life, so it needs plenty of nutrients. This is a mix of various amendments intended to supply all of the nutrients plants may require. It is usually incorporated into the soil prior to planting. The mix consists of:
- 4 parts cottonseed meal (this is high in nitrogen and relatively inexpensive)
- 2 parts colloidal phosphate or bone meal (for phosphorus)
- 2 parts wood ash or 3 parts greensand or granite dust (for potassium)
- 1 part dolomitic limestone (to balance pH and add calcium and magnesium)
- 1 part kelp meal (for trace elements)
Mix these together thoroughly. You can do this all at once, or you can store them separately and mix as needed.
Start Indoors
Soil temp for germination: 50°F to 90°F, optimal 60°F to 85°F, optimal 75°F
Total weeks to grow transplant: 11 (Spring/Summer), 11 (Fall/Winter)
Germinate: 4-8 weeks before last frost date. Parsley is very hardy and can be started indoors up to 8 weeks before the last frost date. It is fairly slow growing when young, so is commonly grown from transplants as this gives the fastest harvest and saves on bed space. These don't mind root disturbance, so you can use flats, cell packs, plug trays or soil blocks. Parsley is slow to germinate and grow to transplant size, but otherwise it is pretty easy to grow.
Transplant Outdoors
Cold, Cool, Warm: Parsley prefers loose, moderately fertile soil with plenty of added organic matter. Water lightly.
When outdoor temp: 45°F to 75°F, optimal temp 60°F to 65°F
When min soil temp: 50°F. Parsley takes a long time to germinate and does best in warm soil between 70˚- 85˚ F (it doesn't germinate well at higher temperatures).
Spacing: 6-10", 4 plants per sq ft. Parsley can be planted as close as 6" together if you plan to harvest the leaves as a cut-and-come-again plant. If you want to harvest the whole plant, allow for a wider spacing of about 8 to 10" so the leaves have enough room to develop.
Support: No
Start Outdoors
When outdoor temp: 45°F to 75°F, optimal temp 60°F to 65°F
When min soil temp: 50°F. Parsley takes a long time to germinate and does best in warm soil between 70˚- 85˚ F (it doesn't germinate well at higher temperatures).
Seed Depth: 0.25"-0.75". Sow the seed 1/4" deep in cool soil and up to 3/4" deep in warm soil.
Spacing: 6-10", 4 plants per sq ft. Parsley can be planted as close as 6" together if you plan to harvest the leaves as a cut-and-come-again plant. If you want to harvest the whole plant, allow for a wider spacing of about 8-10" so the leaves have enough room to develop.
Spring Crop: 2-3 weeks before last frost date: Parsley takes a long time to germinate and does best in warm soil between 70˚-85˚F (at higher temperatures it doesn't germinate well). Sow seed thinly into a well-worked fertile soil. Cover up to 1/4" deep. Parsley is slow to germinate so keep bed evenly moist and be patient. Using row covers to hold moisture and warmth during germination is helpful and helps to keep the birds from enjoying the seedlings. Eventually you will thin plants to 6 to 10" apart. We recommend sowing every 3 to 5" apart to begin, and then thin out the weaker plants as they get bigger so each plant has about 6 to 10" of space.
Support: No
Water Needs: Moderate. Parsley likes moist soil. If you think the plants might need water they probably do.
Fertilizer Needs: Heavy. Parsley prefers a fertile soil with lots of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.
Side Dressing, after planting: Compost tea, 1 cups, after planting, 1 time a month. Give the plant an occasional feed of compost tea to keep it growing well. Put this in the soil around the plant, taking care not to get it on the leaves.
Support: No
Harvesting
Storage
Storage Req: Dry, Drying
Storage Temp: °F
Storage Length: 1-90 days
Parsley is best used fresh straight from the garden. If you want to pamper your parsley, it can be washed, wrapped in cotton towel and kept in the refrigerator for up to one week.
If you don't want to pamper it, just put it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.
Storage Req: Refrigerator
Storage Temp: 35-40°F
Storage Length: 1-7 days
Freezing is the best way to store parsley and retain the full fresh flavor (much better than drying). Blanch quickly, until the color brightens and then remove from the water. Dip in a bath of ice water to cool. Remove stems and chop leaves to a fine texture. Place in a freezer container and cover with water. Ice cube trays work best because they gives you individual servings.
Storage Req: Freezer
Storage Temp: 0°F
Storage Length: 1-60 days
Parsley produces an abundance of seed and will self-sow if you let it.
Seed Viability in Years: 2 - 4 years
Germination Percentage: 70%
Culinary
Culinary Use: The flat types aren't as commonly used an edible garnish as the prettier curly types. It has a superior flavor however and can be added to just about any savory dish. It is an essential ingredient in many European and Western Asian cuisines. Parsley is considered one the essential herbs in the traditional French flavoring blend of "fines herbes." It is best to use fresh parsley, though it can also be dried very easily.
Leaves: raw or cooked. Parsley is frequently used as a garnish or as a flavoring in salads and many cooked dishes, but has too strong a flavor to be eaten in quantity for most palates. It is an ingredient of the herb mix "bouquet garni". The leaves should be harvested regularly in order to encourage fresh growth and get maximum yields. The leaves are difficult to dry but are easily frozen. For drying they require a well-ventilated room that receives long hours of sunlight - the leaves need to be quite crisp if they are to store. Very rich in iron, iodine and magnesium, parsley is also a good source of other minerals and the vitamins A, B and C. The stems can be dried and ground and used as a food coloring. A tea is made from the fresh or dried leaves, it is rich in vitamin C. An essential oil is obtained mainly from the leaves - it is used as a commercial food flavoring. The leaves yields about 1% essential oil, whilst about 6% is obtained from the seed. Some caution is advised on the use of this plant, especially the essential oil.
Known hazards: Parsley is said to contain the alleged 'psychotroph' myristicine. Excessive contact with the plant can cause skin inflammation. Although perfectly safe to eat and nutritious in amounts that are given in recipes, parsley is toxic in excess, especially when used as an essential oil.
Medicinal
Companion Planting
Enemies: Mint and parsley are enemies. Keep them well away from one another.
Problems
Carrot Weevils
To attract Spiders to your garden you will need to grow: tall plants for weaving spiders, mulch for predatory spiders.
Ground Beetles: Prey on Snails, Slugs, Ants, Maggots, Earthworms, Caterpillars, Armyworms, Grubs, Colorado potato beetles, and Cutworms.
To attract Ground Beetles to your garden you will need to grow: evening primrose, amaranthus, and clover.
Predatory Nematodes: parasitize insect pests that have larval or pupal stages of life in the soil; however, they have been known to parasitize above ground stages of adults, nymphs and larvae.
Predatory Nematodes occur naturally in soils throughout the world and are commercially available.
Flea Beetles
To attract Braconid Wasps to your garden you will need to grow: Fern-leaf Yarrow, Common Yarrow, Dill, and Lemon Balm.
Tachinid Flies: Preys on Gypsy Moths, Flea Beetles, Japanese Beetles, Mexican Bean Beetles, Cutworms, and Squash Bugs.
To attract Tachinid Flies to your garden you will need to grow: Carrots, Dill, Coriander, and Buckwheat.
Green Lacewings: Preys on Aphids, Flea beetles, Whitefly, Leafhopper, Mealybugs, and Caterpillars of pest moths.
To attract Green Lacewings to your garden you will need to grow: Dill, Angelica, Golden Marguerite, Coriander, and Dandelion.
Damsel Bugs: Preys on Caterpillars, Mites, Aphids, Flea beetles, Potato beetles, and Cabbage worms.
To attract Damsel Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Big-eyed Bugs: Preys on Aphids, small Caterpillars and Caterpillar eggs, Flea beetles, Fleahoppers, Lygus bugs, Mites, Thrips, Whiteflies.
To attract Big-Eyed Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Leafhoppers
To attract Assassin Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Most garden plants, field crops, ornamental trees and shrubs. Spined assassin bugs are often found on goldenrod and other wildflowers.
Green Lacewings: Preys on Aphids, Flea beetles, Whitefly, Leafhopper, Mealybugs, and Caterpillars of pest moths.
To attract Green Lacewings to your garden you will need to grow: Dill, Angelica, Golden Marguerite, Coriander, and Dandelion.
Ladybug: Preys on Aphids, Cabbage loopers, Leafhoppers, Whitefly, Spider mites, Fleas, Mealybug, and Colorado potato beetles.
To attract Ladybugs to your garden you will need to grow: Angelica, Caraway, Dill, Dandelion, Fennel, Fern-leaf Yellow, Basket of Gold, Common Yarrow, Golden rod.
Minute Pirate Bugs: Preys on Spider mites, Cabbage looper, Insect eggs, Caterpillars, Aphids, and Thrips.
To attract Minute Pirate Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Tarnished Plant Bugs
To attract Big-Eyed Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Damsel Bugs: Preys on Caterpillars, Mites, Aphids, Flea beetles, Potato beetles, and Cabbage worms.
To attract Damsel Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Minute Pirate Bugs: Preys on Spider mites, Cabbage looper, Insect eggs, Caterpillars, Aphids, and Thrips.
To attract Minute Pirate Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Plants that attract Minute Pirate Bugs are: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Nutrition
The Health Benefits of Parsley
Promotes Kidney Cleanse: A research published in 2002 revealed that parsley is rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help cleanse the kidneys naturally. For many centuries now, it has been used as a diuretic that helps treat kidney stones, gallbladder stones, bladder infections, and urinary tract infections (UTIs).
A kidney-cleanse can be done, under medical supervision, through the intake of the herb in dishes, parsley tea, parsley juiced with other vegetables, or parsley lemon water. The roots of the herb are also very useful in counteracting kidney stones.
Treats Bloating (Edema): A 2013 study states that parsley has diuretic properties, which help treat bloating, edema, or water retention. If you are afflicted by this condition, a few teaspoons of its juice can provide some quick relief.
Also, the juice is an excellent natural remedy as over-the-counter chemical diuretics can flush out potassium, causing harm to the body. The herb, with its rich potassium content, helps you avoid undesirable side effects of a mineral imbalance.
Weight Loss: Parsley is a nutrient-dense herb, which is low in calories. A research conducted on the effects of parsley on cadmium neurotoxicity suggests that it also helps boost metabolism. A healthy metabolism paves way for a quicker and healthy weight loss. Moreover, parsley also removes excess water from the body and cleanse the kidneys and livers. This, in turn, keeps the body’s functioning at its optimal level and helps in weight loss.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Parsley has traditionally been used in the Mediterranean region for toothaches, bruises, insect bites, and rough skin. According to the American Journal of Clinical and Experimental Urology, parsley has anti-inflammatory and anti-hepatotoxicity properties that help reduce internal inflammation and also help cleanse the liver.
Skin Care: Parsley, abundant in vitamin C and antioxidants, has potent collagen producing and skin lightening properties. The herb helps to reduce the appearance of blemishes and scars. It also has the ability to balance oil production and hence, is an excellent remedy for acne.
For an effective acne mask, mix a few sprigs of the herb, 2 teaspoons of organic apple cider vinegar, and a tablespoon of honey in a blender. This helps to soothe and soften the skin.
Detoxification: Few herbs are as cleansing as parsley, which is packed with vitamins and potent flavonoids. It can detox the body from heavy metals as well as other toxins. Adding its roots to boiling water and drinking it on a daily basis is also known to be an effective general cleanser for the body. Also, parsley cilantro juice is widely used as a detoxification drink.
Controls Diabetes: Parsley contains a flavonoid called myricetin, which can lower blood sugar levels and decrease insulin resistance. A research study conducted showed evidence that diabetic rats that were given parsley actually showed a decrease in their blood sugar levels over a period of a month. Traditionally, it was used as a medicine for diabetes in Turkey.
Boosts Digestion: Including parsley in your diet helps stimulate digestion because of its enzyme and fiber content. Enzymes help in better nutrient absorption and improve the digestion of proteins and fats in the body. The herb also helps cleanse the gastrointestinal tract and maintain overall health.
Controls Rheumatoid Arthritis: Parsley has also been particularly effective against rheumatoid arthritis. Vitamin C and beta-carotene found in the herb possess anti-inflammatory properties that help in controlling arthritis and reducing arthritic pain. Consuming parsley juice or tea regularly is also believed to speed up the process of uric acid removal, which has been linked to symptoms of arthritis.
Anticancer Properties: Apigenin, a flavone in parsley, prevents the progression of cancer and halts tumor growth. According to research published in Oncotarget, apigenin inhibited an enzyme, which caused the multiplication of cancer cells. The herb was found especially helpful in preventing prostate, colorectal, and colon cancer. Both, fresh and dried parsley, have high levels of apigenin.
Also, parsley oil extract contains a compound called myristicin, which is a phenylpropane. A preliminary investigation into the effects of myristicin on laboratory rats revealed that it has anti-carcinogenic properties as it counteracts free radicals in the body.
Treats Osteoporosis: Parsley, with its high levels of vitamins B-complex, C, and K, and calcium can help boost bone health. It helps prevent osteoporosis and maintain optimal bone health even as we age. The B vitamins also help reduce levels of homocysteine, an amino acid in the body, which can weaken bones.
Relieves Flatulence: Parsley helps to relieve flatulence and colic, due to its carminative action. The root, the herb, as well as the essential oil, can boost bile production and gastric juices. This gives a much-needed boost to the digestion process and cures gas, constipation, bloating, indigestion, and nausea. The essential oil can also be applied to the stomach area for relief from cramps.
Treats Acid Reflux (GERD): Parsley has been used as a natural remedy for acid reflux since it settles the stomach and aids in digestion.
Boosts Immunity: The vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in parsley are helpful for strengthening immunity and treating fever. Vitamins such as vitamin C, A, K, folate, and niacin, each act on different aspects of the immune system. Vitamin A acts directly on lymphocytes or white blood cells, thereby increasing their effect. The chlorophyll contained in it has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties as well. Studies have also shown that the herb contains antioxidant properties and antibacterial properties, making it an ideal source for various home remedies.
Improves Brain Health: Apigenin, a potent flavone in parsley, improves neuron formation and enhances brain functions such as memory and learning. This plant compound is being researched for its ability to treat neurodegenerative diseases like schizophrenia, depression, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease. The herbal extract is known to increase cognitive performance as well as improve alertness and memory.
Antibacterial & Antifungal Properties: Parsley has enzymes that are antibacterial and antifungal in nature. It has an inhibitory effect against the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause boils, skin infections, cellulitis, and severe conditions like pneumonia and meningitis.
Pain Relief: Parsley has high levels of vitamin K, vitamin C, and beta-carotene, which heals bruises and reduces pain. For a home-made remedy for bruises, you can crush the fresh leaves, spread it over the afflicted area, and secure the salve with a bandage. Also, lactating women use the herbal leaves as a poultice to reduce breast tenderness.
The herb also helps reduce joint pain, fatigue, and has the ability to soften stiff muscles, because of the presence of a potent antioxidant, quercetin. It is especially good for people suffering from arthritis and joint problems. You can also use parsley juice to cure toothaches and earaches.
Cures Anemia: The high concentration of iron in parsley helps treat anemia, which is caused by iron deficiency. Vitamin C in the herb aids in better absorption of iron. People who have a hard time taking iron supplements are often told to have its juice or tea.
Treats Bad Breath: Chewing a few sprigs of parsley helps fight bad breath or halitosis. The herb’s fresh flavor and high chlorophyll content help freshen the breath temporarily. This is probably why it has been used, since ancient times, as a natural mouth freshener.
Heart Health: Parsley is abundant in flavone antioxidants, which can reduce oxidative stress, thus boosting cardiovascular health. This herb also contains high levels of vitamin B and folic acid that prevents the thickening of artery walls. Also, potassium in the herb lowers blood pressure, which helps prevent heart diseases and strokes.
Balances Hormones: Parsley helps improve the hormonal balance in women, enhances their libido, and boosts the secretion of the estrogen hormone. Intake of the herb helps treat hormonal disorders like premenstrual syndrome, menopause, or delayed menstruation cycle. Furthermore, parsley tea helps reduce menstrual cramps and discomfort.
Eye Health: Parsley is abundant in vitamin A, and antioxidants like carotenoid as well as beta-carotene, that helps boost eye health. It helps protect the retina from damage and prevents macular degeneration as well as cataracts. The nutrients in the herb also help reduce eye puffiness and dark circles.
Hair Care: The paste made from powdered seeds of parsley has long been used as a natural remedy for hair lice, dandruff, and scalp irritation. It also helps strengthen weak hair, promote healthy hair growth, and stops hair fall. The nutrients in this powerful herb can help increase keratin and collagen production, which protects the hair from free radical damage. Also, a parsley rinse can help retain hair color since it has high levels of copper.
Suggested Varieties
(Amaranthus caudatus 'Love, Lies, Bleeding')
Love, Lies, Bleeding Amaranth is a heirloom annual leaf vegetable that is native to South America, but can be commonly found growing in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 2-4' and features erect, deep red stems, 6” oval, light green leaves and 12” bright red, drooping tassels. This plant can be grown in containers or hanging baskets, attracts bees and butterflies, tolerates drought, is used to make dye, self sows, is both edible and medicinal, and is great as a cut flower!
(Amaranthus tricolor 'Perfecta')
Perfecta Amaranth is a heirloom upright, busy annual leaf vegetable that is native to India and tropical Asia, but can be commonly found growing in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 2-4' and feature s erect stems, 10” oval-shaped, green to purple leaves that have yellow and red blotches, and 1” green to red flowers. This plant can be grown in containers, attracts bees and butterflies, tolerates drought, is edible, and its foliage is a addition to cut flowers!
(Amaranthus cruentus 'Red Garnet')
Red garnet Amaranth is a heirloom, warm weather annual leaf vegetable that is native to Mexico and South America, but can be commonly found growing in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 6-7' and features erect stems, oval-shaped, burgundy red leaves, and large dark red flower spikes. This plant can be grown in containers, attracts bees, birds, and butterflies, tolerates drought, and it's edible!
(Asparagus officinalis 'Mary Washington')
Mary Washington Asparagus is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather perennial vegetable that is native to California, where it was developed by the University of California-Davis in 1949. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 4-5' and features stout stems, feathery foliage, greenish-white to yellow bell-shaped flowers, 8" asparagus spears, and even red berries. This plant can be grown in a container, is resistant to rabbits, has nematocidal properties, is both edible and medicinal, can be used as a coffee substitute, and tolerates drought and frost!
(Melissa officinalis ‘Lemon Balm’)
Lemon Balm is perennial herb that is native to the Southern Europe but can be commonly found growing throughout the northwestern, south central, and eastern United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 2' and features 3” oval, medium green, wrinkled, lemon scented leaves, and tiny white flowers that have two lips. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees, birds, butterflies, hoverflies, parasitic wasps, and tachinid flies, repels ants and flies, is resistant to deer, tolerates drought, is used to make essential oils and potpourri, self sows, and is also both edible and medicinal!
(Carum carvi ‘Caraway')
Caraway is a biennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia but can be commonly found growing in meadows, prairies, and along roadsides throughout the northern United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 12-18” and features feathery fronds and umbrella shaped clusters of tiny white flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees, butterflies, damsel bugs, hoverflies, lacewings, ladybugs, and predatory wasps, and is also both edible and medicinal!
(Daucus carota 'Chantenay Red Cored')
Chantenay Red Cored Carrot is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather annual vegetable that is native to France, but is commonly grown across the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 12-18” and features a 7" long, orange, nearly coreless carrots. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs and tachinid flies, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, is used to flavor perfumes and make alcohol, and is both edible and medicinal.
(Daucus carota 'Cosmic Purple')
Cosmic Purple Carrot is a hardy, cool weather annual vegetable that is native to Wisconsin, where it was developed in Madison by Dr. Philipp in 2005. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 6-12” and features 7" purple skinned carrots with orange and yellow flesh. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs and tachinid flies, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, is used to flavor perfumes and make alcohol, and is both edible and medicinal.
(Daucus carota 'Danvers')
Danvers Carrot is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather annual vegetable that is native to Massachusetts, where it was developed in Danvers and was first marketed by Burpee Seed Co. in 1886. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 12-18” and features a 7" long, nearly coreless orange carrot. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs and tachinid flies, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, is used to flavor perfumes and make alcohol, and is both edible and medicinal.
(Daucus carota 'Rainbow Blend')
Rainbow Blend Carrot is a heirloom seed mix consisting of Cosmic Purple, Atomic Red, Lunar White, and Solar Yellow Carrots which are hardy, cool weather annual vegetables that are grown in the United States. These carrots can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs and tachinid flies, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, is used to flavor perfumes and make alcohol, and is both edible and medicinal.
(Daucus carota 'Scarlet Nantes')
Scarlet Nantes Carrot is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather annual vegetable that is native to France, but are commonly grown across the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 16” and features a 7" long, bright red-orange, fine-grained fleshed carrot. These carrots can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs and tachinid flies, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, is used to flavor perfumes and make alcohol, and is both edible and medicinal.
(Daucus carota 'Tendersweet')
Tendersweet Carrot is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather annual vegetable that is native to Europe, but are commonly grown across the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 6-18” and features a 9-10" coreless, deep orange carrots. These carrots can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs and tachinid flies, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, is used to flavor perfumes and make alcohol, and is both edible and medicinal.
(Allium tuberosum ‘Garlic')
Garlic Chive is a clump-forming annual herb that is native to Asia but can be found growing throughout the Midwest, and along the southern and eastern coasts of the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 10-18" and features 12” tapering, soft textured, cylindrical leaves, leafless stems, and 2” violet scented, star-shaped, white flowers that have brown striped tepals. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees, butterflies, and ladybugs, repels aphids, carrot fly, Japanese beetles, and moles, is resistant to deer, tolerates drought and frost, is used to make fungicides and insecticides, is both edible and medicinal, and self sows!
(Allium schoenoprasum ‘Onion')
Onion Chive is a native clump-forming perennial herb that can be found growing throughout the northern United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 20” and features 12” dark green grassy-like leaves and 16” stems that are topped with aromatic pale purple clover-like flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees, butterflies, ladybugs, and pollinating moths, repels aphids, carrot fly, Japanese beetles, and moles, is resistant to deer, tolerates drought and frost, is used to make fungicides and insecticides, is both edible and medicinal, and self sows!
(Trifolium incarnatum ‘Crimson’)
Crimson Clover is an annual flower that is native to Europe, but can be found growing across the U.S. in nearly every state. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 1-3' and features hairy rosette unbranched stems, 1/2-1” heart shaped leaflets, and 1-2 1/2” cylindrical flower heads that bare ½ vibrant red florets. This plant can be grown in a container, it attracts bees and butterflies, is both drought and frost tolerant, and provides forage to livestock!
(Dalea purpurea ‘Purple Prairie’)
Only a few left!
Purple Prairie Clover is a native perennial flower that can be found growing in prairies throughout the United States. Growing to the height of 1-3' tall, this beautiful plant features tiny purple flowers that grow densely on a cone-like head. This cultivar is a gardening powerhouse due to its nitrogen-fixing ability, it attracts bees and butterflies, it provides forage to birds and livestock, it is both edible and medicinal, it tolerates drought, as well as being gorgeous as a cut flower!
(Coriandrum sativum ‘Leisure')
Leisure Coriander is a warm weather annual herb that is native to the western Mediterranean and southern Europe but can be found growing throughout meadows and fields in the coastline and border states of the U.S. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 24-36” and features fern-like, finely-divided upper leaves, lobed lower leaves that resemble Italian Parsley, and 2” compound umbels that have white to pale lavender flower blooms. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees, butterflies, hoverflies, lacewings, ladybugs, predatory wasps, and tachinid flies, repels aphids and spider mites, is horse and rabbit safe, is used to flavor perfume and soap, tolerates light frost, is used to make fungicides, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Anethum graveolens ‘Dukat')
Dukat Dill is an annual herb that is native to the Mediterranean and Asia but can be commonly found growing throughout the Midwest, northeastern, and west coast of the Untied States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 3-5' and features stiff hollow stems, sweet scented, bluish green, feathery foliage and compound 10” umbrella-shaped umbels that are topped by yellow aromatic flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees, butterflies, hoverflies, lacewings, ladybugs, predatory wasps, and tachinid flies, repels aphids, spider mites, and squash bugs, is rabbit safe, tolerates deer, its leaves are used as an insect repellent, tolerates drought and light frost, is used to flavor soaps, is used to make insecticides, is both edible and medicinal, and self sows!
(Foeniculum vulgare ‘Florence')
Florence Fennel is a perennial herb that is native to the Mediterranean but can be commonly found growing throughout most of the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 3-5' and features a rounded, branching, celery-like stalk, yellowish-green, feathery foliage and umbrella shaped heads of tiny yellow flowers. This plant attracts bees, butterflies, damsel bugs, hoverflies, lacewings, ladybugs, and predatory wasps, tolerates deer, is used to flavor air fresheners, perfumes, soaps, and toothpaste, the leaves are used to repel insects, tolerates drought and light frost, is used to make dyes, is both edible and medicinal, and self sows!
(Allium fistulosum 'Evergreen White Bunching')
Evergreen White Bunching Onion is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather biennial vegetable that is native to Asia, but can be commonly found growing in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 12-20” and features 12–14" bright green, hollow stalks and greenish-white flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, tolerates drought and light frost, makes dye, repels moles, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Allium cepa 'Ruby Red')
Ruby Red Onion is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather biennial vegetable that is native to New York, where it was developed by John Brozdowski and introduced by Asgrow Seed Company in 1964. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 18-24” and features 3” medium-large, globe-shaped, burgundy onions. This plant can be grown in a container, tolerates drought and light frost, makes dye, repels moles, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Allium cepa 'Sweet Spanish White')
Sweet Spanish White Onion is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather biennial vegetable that is native to the Mediterranean, but can be commonly found growing in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 18-24” and features 3” large, globe-shaped, white skinned onions. This plant can be grown in a container, tolerates drought and light frost, makes dye, repels moles, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Allium cepa 'Sweet Spanish Yellow')
Sweet Spanish Yellow Onion is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather biennial vegetable that is native to the Mediterranean, but can be commonly found growing in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 18-24” and features 3” large, globe-shaped, yellow skinned onions. This plant can be grown in a container, tolerates drought and light frost, makes dye, repels moles, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Solanum lycopersicum 'Amana Orange')
Amana Orange Tomato is a heirloom, tender, warm weather perennial vegetable that is native to Iowa, where it was named by Gary Staley after the Amana Colonies of Amana, Iowa. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 60-84” and features globe shaped, reddish orange beefsteak indeterminate tomatoes that average 1-2 lbs. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetics, insecticides, and soap, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Solanum lycopersicum 'Arkansas Traveler')
Arkansas Traveler Tomato is a heirloom, tender, warm weather annual vegetable that is native to Arkansas, where it was bred by the University of Arkansas in 1968. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 60-84” and features slightly flattened, 8 oz. bright-red/orange-tinged, smooth tomatoes. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetics, insecticides, and soap, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Solanum lycopersicum 'Beefsteak')
Beefsteak Tomato is a heirloom, tender, warm weather annual vegetable that is native to New York, where it was bred by Peter Henderson in 1894. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 36-60” and features indeterminate, globe shaped, slightly ribbed red tomatoes that average 1-2 pounds. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetics, insecticides, and soap, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Solanum lycopersicum 'Black Krim')
Black Krim Tomato is a heirloom, tender, warm weather annual vegetable that is native to Russia, but can be commonly found growing in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 48-72” and features indeterminate, globe shaped tomatoes that vary in color from reddish brown to purplish green, and average 10-16 ounces. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetics, insecticides, and soap, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Solanum lycopersicum 'Green Zebra')
Green Zebra Tomato is a heirloom, tender, warm weather annual vegetable that is native to Washington, where it was bred by Tom Wagner in 1983. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 60-84” and features indeterminate, globe shaped greenish yellow tomatoes striped with green, averaging 3-5 ounces. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetics, insecticides, and soap, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Solanum lycopersicum 'Hillbilly')
Hillbilly Tomato is a heirloom, tender, warm weather annual vegetable that is native to West Virginia and has been around since the 1800's. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 48-72” and features indeterminate, 1-2 lbs. globe shaped, reddish orange tomatoes that have multicolored red, orange, and yellow flesh. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetics, insecticides, and soap, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Solanum lycopersicum 'Italian Roma')
Italian Roma Tomato is a heirloom, tender, warm weather annual vegetable that is native to United States where it was developed by the USDA in 1955. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 36-60” and features determinate, oblong red tomatoes that average 3-5 ounces. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetics, insecticides, and soap, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Solanum lycopersicum 'Purple Cherokee')
Purple Cherokee Tomato is a heirloom, tender, warm weather annual vegetable that is native to the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 48-96” and features indeterminate, globe shaped reddish purple tomatoes that average 12-16 oz. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetics, insecticides, and soap, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Solanum lycopersicum 'Sweetie Cherry')
Sweetie Cherry Tomato is a heirloom, tender, warm weather annual vegetable that is native to the United States, where it was first introduced by the Petoseed Company in 1980. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 72-96” and features indeterminate, clusters of round red cherry tomatoes that average 1" in diameter. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetics, insecticides, and soap, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Solanum lycopersicum 'Yellow Pear')
Yellow Pear Tomato is a heirloom, tender, warm weather annual vegetable that is native to Europe, but was first introduced to North America by the Hudson Bay Company of Vancouver, Canada. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 60-84” and features indeterminate, pear shaped, low acid yellow tomatoes that average 1 ounce. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetics, insecticides, and soap, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Achillea millefolium 'Rubra')
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Red Yarrow is a native mat-forming perennial that can be commonly found growing along roadways and in fields and lawns throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 1-2' and features erect stems, medium green fern-like foliage, and clusters of red flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees, butterflies, hoverflies, ladybugs, and predatory wasps, is rabbit safe, repels beetles, and flies, the leaves are burned to repel mosquitoes, is used as a compost activator, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetic cleansers, dye, essential oil, and liquid plant food, self sows, is both edible and medicinal, and is great as a cut flower!
(Achillea millefolium 'White')
White Yarrow is a native mat-forming perennial that can be commonly found growing along roadways and in fields and lawns throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 12-18” and features erect stems, medium green fern-like foliage, and clusters of white flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees, butterflies, hoverflies, ladybugs, and predatory wasps, is rabbit safe, repels beetles, and flies, the leaves are burned to repel mosquitoes, is used as a compost activator, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetic cleansers, dye, essential oil, and liquid plant food, self sows, is both edible and medicinal, and is great as a cut flower!