Apium graveolens aka Celery

Taxonomy

Genus Apium Family Apiaceae Order Apiales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Celery (Apium graveolens) is a marshland plant in the family Apiaceae that has been cultivated as a vegetable since antiquity. It is a biennial plant primarily grown for its thick stalk. The leaves are pinnate to bipinnate, with rhombic leaflets. The flowers are creamy-white and produced in dense compound umbels. Wild celery, Apium graveolens var. graveolens, grows up to 1 meter tall and occurs globally. The first cultivation of celery is believed to have happened in the Mediterranean region. It prefers moist or wet, nutrient-rich, muddy soils. Originally grown as a winter and early spring vegetable, celery was considered a cleansing tonic. By the 19th century, the season for celery in England had been extended. Self-blanching varieties of celery dominate the market, eliminating the need for earthing up. In North America, the dominant cultivar is 'Pascal' celery. Gardeners can grow a range of cultivars, many of which differ from the wild species. In Europe, celeriac (celery root) is popular due to its large bulb. The leaves and small, fibrous stalks find marginal use. The wild plant from which celery and celeriac have been bred is a biennial that grows in damp ground and tolerates salty conditions. It has bright green aromatic leaves and clusters of small white flowers that ripen to light brown seeds. The leaves and seeds can be used in small quantities to flavor food. Celery not only serves as a vegetable but also adds a great atmosphere to your home. It is easy and fun to grow, with its light green color, long stock, and delicate upper leaves.

Common names

Celery, Wild Celery, Celeriac

How to care for Celery

Difficulty

Celery presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Celery should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Celery loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Celery thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Celeriac.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Celery to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Growth-pattern

Celery grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Celery’s native range is Central and southern Europe, including Britain, to temperate areas of Africa and Asia.

More info:
Wikipedia

More Species in Apium Genus

Apium graveolens dulce Garden Celery

Apium insulare

Apium prostratum Prostrate Marshwort