Celery Leaf
Apium graveolens var. secalinum
Culinary
Common Names:
Celery Leaf, Cutting Celery, Leaf Celery, Herb Celery
Quick Glance:
Common Use: Aromatic herb used for its tender leaves and stalks in soups, stews, salads, and garnishes.
Growth Habit: Upright, bushy biennial grown as an annual; forms clumps of feathery, deeply divided leaves.
Plant Size: Typically grows 12–18 inches tall and 6–12 inches wide.
Light Needs: Thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade.
Key Feature: Highly aromatic leaves with a concentrated celery flavor, ideal for culinary use.
ID:
Scientific Name: Apium graveolens var. secalinum
Family: Apiaceae
Physical Description:
Celery leaf is a fast-growing herbaceous plant with finely divided, bright green leaves resembling flat-leaf parsley. The plant produces slender, ribbed stalks that are edible but not as thick or fibrous as traditional celery. It is highly aromatic, with a strong celery flavor concentrated in the leaves and stems.
Plant Size:
Height: 12–18 inches.
Width: 6–12 inches.
Light Requirement:
Prefers full sun for optimal growth but tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
How to Grow:
Soil: Thrives in fertile, well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).
Transplanting: Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they have 2–3 true leaves and the soil has warmed, spacing them 6–12 inches apart. Water thoroughly after transplanting.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, as celery leaf is shallow-rooted and sensitive to drought. Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost at planting and side-dress with additional nitrogen during the growing season to support leafy growth.
Harvesting: Begin harvesting leaves when plants are about 6–8 inches tall. Use the cut-and-come-again method, trimming outer leaves while leaving the inner rosette intact for continuous growth.
Container Growing:
Container Size: Use a pot at least 8–12 inches deep and wide.
Soil: Fill with nutrient-rich, well-draining potting mix.
Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
Placement: Position the container in a sunny spot or partial shade in hot climates.
Pest Management:
Common Pests: Aphids, leaf miners, and spider mites.
Solutions: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for aphids and spider mites. Remove leaves affected by leaf miners and dispose of them away from the garden.
Diseases: Susceptible to fungal diseases like leaf spot and root rot in overly humid or poorly drained conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Spreading Habit:
Spreading: Celery leaf grows in compact clumps and does not spread aggressively.
How to Handle: Thin seedlings as needed to maintain healthy growth and airflow.
Companion Planting:
Celery leaf grows well with a variety of vegetables and herbs:
Carrots and Parsnips: Enhance flavor and maximize space in the garden.
Tomatoes and Peppers: Improve overall plant health and pest resistance.
Onions and Garlic: Help deter pests like aphids and spider mites.
How to Use:
Culinary: Celery leaf is highly versatile in the kitchen. Use fresh leaves as a garnish, add to salads, or stir into soups and stews. Stems can be finely chopped and used as a flavoring herb.
Medicinal: Traditionally used for its diuretic properties and to aid digestion. Celery leaf is rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and K.
Ornamental: Its bright green, parsley-like foliage makes it a visually appealing addition to herb gardens or mixed containers.
Recipe Ideas:
Celery Leaf Salad:
Ingredients: Fresh celery leaves, mixed greens, cucumbers, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Instructions: Toss celery leaves with mixed greens and sliced cucumbers. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season to taste.
Celery Leaf Pesto:
Ingredients: Celery leaves, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts.
Instructions: Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Use as a pasta sauce, spread, or dip.
Celery Leaf Broth:
Ingredients: Celery leaves, onion, carrots, garlic, parsley, and water.
Instructions: Simmer celery leaves and other vegetables in water for 30–40 minutes. Strain and use as a flavorful base for soups or sauces.