Petroselinum crispum
This biennial plant is one of the most basic herbs for any herb garden. The Italian Flat Leaf variety of parsley is much more robust (both in flavour and growth) and as such is favoured by chefs for use in cooking.
This is nowhere more evident than in Italian cuisine.
Direct sow the seeds in Spring, Summer and early Autumn. Place the seeds in a refrigerator for two weeks prior to planting for best results.
Scatter a few seeds together spaced 15 - 20 cm apart or plant in drills. Seedlings may take 3 - 4 weeks to emerge, so ensure you don't let the area the seed are planted in dry out in that time.
It grows best in full sun, though it can be grown well in part shade.
Parsley enjoys rich fertile soil types and damp areas that have good drainage. Liquid fertilise parsley every few weeks.