Alexanders Seeds
The original pot herb — food before parsley existed
Alexanders was the most important pot herb in Ireland and Britain from the Roman period until the 17th century, when parsley and celery replaced it. Every part is edible: the young stems (like celery), the leaves (like parsley), the flower buds (like broccoli), and the roots (like parsnip).
It's one of the first plants to produce green growth in late winter — often by February — making it invaluable in the hungry gap. The yellow-green flowers in spring are among the earliest nectar sources for emerging bees.
Species Included
Smyrnium olusatrum (Alexanders)
Sowing Instructions
Sow autumn (September–October) for best germination — needs cold stratification. Can also be spring-sown after 4 weeks in the fridge. Sow 1cm deep, 30cm apart. Harvest stems and leaves from the following spring. Self-seeds freely once established.
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