Parsley

Abstract

Parsley, Petroselinum crispum (Syn. Apium petroselinum Linn.; P. lativum Hoffm.; Carum petroselinum Benth), is a biennial herb belonging to the family Apiaceae. It is native to southern Europe and western Asia and in many parts of the world is cultivated commercially as an annual for its attractive and aromatic leaves. In America, parsley is used mostly as a garnish, while in Europe and the Middle East it is used almost as often as salt (http://www.chilipaper. com/). Chopped parsley leaves are a popular decoration in Central Europe (similar to the use of coriander leaves in China, South-east Asia and parts of India), mostly for soups and vegetables. The Latin name, Petroselinum, was derived from Greek pétros, rock, stone. Selinum was the Latin name of celery. The species name was given because of the crispate leaf shape. Parsley has been known for over 1000 years in the Mediterranean (http://www. uni-graz.at/).