How to Grow Italian Parsley From Seed

Is Italian parsley the same as flat-leaf parsley?

Yes. Italian parsley and flat-leaf parsley are two names for the same plant, Petroselinum crispum var. neapolitanum. Curly parsley is the other common type. Both are the same species, so they are sown, grown, and harvested the same way.

Is Italian parsley the same as cilantro?

No, though the flat leaves look alike. Cilantro has rounder, softer leaves and a citrusy smell, while Italian parsley has pointed, toothed leaflets and a clean, peppery scent. Crush a leaf to tell. Cilantro also bolts fast in heat; parsley lasts far longer.

How tall does Italian parsley grow?

Italian parsley usually forms a leafy clump about 1 to 2 feet tall in its first year, a little taller than curly parsley. Its height jumps only in the second year, when the plant sends up a flower stalk to set seed and the leaves lose their flavor.

How do you keep cut Italian parsley fresh?

Stand the stems in a jar with an inch of water, cover the leaves loosely with a bag, and keep it in the fridge, changing the water every day or two. It keeps for a week or more. For longer storage, freeze chopped leaves in ice cube trays with a little water.