Parsley, or garden parsley (Petroselinum crispum) is a species of flowering plant in the family Apiaceae that is native to the central and eastern Mediterranean region but has been naturalized elsewhere and is widely cultivated as a herb, and a vegetable.
Parsley is widely used in European, Middle Eastern, and American cuisine.
Curly leaf parsley is often used as a garnish. In central Europe, eastern Europe, and southern Europe, as well as in western Asia, many dishes are served with fresh green chopped parsley sprinkled on top.
Flat-leaf parsley is similar, but it is easier to cultivate, some say it has a stronger flavour.
Root parsley is very common in central, eastern, and southern European cuisines, where it is used as a snack or a vegetable in many soups, stews, and casseroles.