How to Grow Alexanders
Smyrnium olusatrum
Alexanders is a hardy biennial grown as a seasonal crop. Sow in autumn or early spring in any reasonable, moist soil in a sheltered spot. It forms a leafy rosette in the first year, then sends up tall stems with yellow-green flowers in early spring of the second year. The stems, leaves, flower buds, and seeds are all edible with a flavour between celery and parsley. Blanch young stems under a bucket for extra tenderness. It self-seeds freely once established, so allow a few plants to set seed to keep the colony going without resowing each year.
When to Start
Direct sow outdoors as soon as soil reaches 5°C — typically early to mid spring. Can also be started indoors 6 weeks earlier for a head start.
Don't know your frost date? Find it here →
Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Light feeder. Incorporate compost before sowing. A top-dress of general fertiliser in spring of the second year supports strong stem growth before harvest.
- Alexanders is a robust biennial that was widely used as a pot herb before celery became common. It is particularly suited to coastal and exposed gardens. Self-seeds freely once established — allow a few plants to flower and it will naturalise reliably.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 5°C+
- Germination temperature
- 5–15°C
- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
Want your full season plan with reminders? Try Leaftide free
Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 45 cm |
| Row spacing | 60 cm |
| Mature height | 150 cm |
| Mature spread | 60 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 5°C |
| Germination temperature | 5–15°C |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Alexanders?
- Plant Alexanders 45cm apart with 60cm between rows.
- Is Alexanders frost hardy?
- Alexanders is classified as Hardy.
