Aromatic biennial herb, generally less than 30 cm tall. Leaves divided 3 times, ovate to lanceolate or triangular in outline but dissection and curling variable according to cultivar. Flower clusters with 8-20 rays. Fruit about 2 mm wide. [P. hortense Hoffm.]

Europe

Available as a wide range of leaf form cultivars, including 'Afro', 'Extra Triple Curled', 'Flamenco', 'Frizz', 'Green Market', 'Italian', 'Italian Flatleaf', 'Napoli', 'Triple Curled' and 'Vigaro'

var. neapolitanum Danert, Italian Parsley. Roots fibrous, leaves flat.

var. tuberosum (Bernh.) Crov, Turnip-rooted Parsley. Roots thick and edible, leaves flat.

Source: Spencer, R. (2002). Apiaceae. In: Spencer, R.. Horticultural Flora of South-eastern Australia. Volume 4. Flowering plants. Dicotyledons. Part 3. The identification of garden and cultivated plants. University of New South Wales Press.