Smallage

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Smallage
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Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Plantae
(Unranked): Angiosperms
(Unranked): Eudicots
(Unranked): Asterids
Order: Apiales
Family: Apiaceae
Genus: Apium
Species: Apium graveolens
Synonyms
Celeri à couper (French)
Plant Data
Mature height: 30-100cm (1-3ft)
Growing plant spacing: 40cm (16in)
References: [1]

Smallage is a wild variety of celery. Two domestic cultivars were bred from it which we now call "celery" (Apium graveolens var. dulce) and celeriac (Apium graveolens var. rapaceum).[2] It is a strongly scented, erect, biennial herb of the carrot family; Apiaceae. Widely distributed in moist places within the temperate zones and grown for use as a flavouring similar to celery. In traditional medicine, smallage roots are used as a carminative and its leaf stalks as a soothing tea.[3]

The seeds of smallage can be used as an ingredient in celery salt or added to soups, curries, casseroles and pickles or used as a salt-substitute. The leaf can be chopped in small amounts to add to salads, cream cheese, poultry stuffing or as a garnish. Add a handful to milk to poach fish and shellfish. When adding to soups, add only in the last 3 minutes to retain flavour and nutrition.[1]

Growing[edit | edit source]

Locatation[edit | edit source]

Grow in a sunny site that is shaded during the midday sun and sheltered from strong winds.[1]

Soil[edit | edit source]

Provide a rich, moist soil with good drainage.[1]

Sowing[edit | edit source]

Sow indoors under heat in early spring or outdoors in late spring. Germination is slow.[1]

Aftercare[edit | edit source]

Plants should not continue to be grown indoors. Transplant seedlings to 40cm (16in) apart.[1]

Harvesting[edit | edit source]

Pick leaves in late summer or as you need them. Collect seeds when ripe.[1]

Preserving[edit | edit source]

Dry seeds. Leaves are suitable for drying or freezing or using to infuse vinegar.[1]

Troubles[edit | edit source]

Main article: Apiaceae troubles

References[edit | edit source]

Template:Reflist

This page uses Creative Commons Licensed content from Wikipedia (view authors).
  1. a b c d e f g h Bremness, L. (1988). The Complete Book of Herbs. Dorling Kindersley Ltd, London. p.48.
  2. (2010). Smallage. Practically Edible. Retrieved: 2011-01.04.
  3. Smallage. Encyclopaedia Britannica. Retrieved: 2011-01-04.