Eggarton Cottages, Eggarton Lane, Godmersham, Kent, CT4 7DY
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Hardy annual, growing 2 ft (60 cm) high. It has frondy leaves and white umbels of flowers during early summer. It is used as a flavouring to provide a faint aniseed flavour. It is also rich in Vitamin C, carotene, iron and magnesium. The ancient Romans regarded it as an essential kitchen herb. Its name comes from the Greek “chairophyllon”, meaning happy leaf. Leaves can be chewed for bad breath.
Chervil is first mentioned by the Roman writer on agriculture, Columella, so it is an ancient plant. It was used many years ago to reduce blood pressure. Leaves can be applied externally as a poultice to relieve aches, piles and conjunctivitis. Plant is alleged to be good for the memory, hence its name cerefolium. The juice has been used for dropsy, eczema and gout. The plant’s large, black seeds were used by witches to produce double vision. The plant has also been said to increase sex drive and lift depression. Pliny recommended it if a man was exhausted from too many women!
Chervil has reputed companion planting uses – radishes have a hotter flavour if Chervil is planted by them; lettuces may be protected from ants and aphids. Chervil also repels slugs.
Plant out after danger of frost in partial shade and light, rich soil. Good for a damp, shady spot. Pick off flowers as they appear.
Cut leaves back to encourage further growth from the base of the plant. Take leaves from the outside of the plant and remove flowerheads. Use in soups or salads. Beware, it is a vigorous self-seeder! If plant becomes too dry it will flower and produce seed too quickly so best to plant in shade to protect plant from running too quickly to seed and water regularly in dry weather. Plant turns pink and then red the older it gets.
*This sheet is provided for information only and is in no way a prescription for use. Please seek the advice of a qualified herbalist before using*