Parsley piert

Parsley piert is a species of fern that is often found in light, impoverished soils. It is a low growing plant with leaves that are arranged in a rosette at the base of the plant. The small delicate leaves resemble parsley with three distinct leaflets, and have a similar aroma when crushed. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of habitats. 

Parsley piert is a food source for a variety of small insects including butterflies and bees. It is edible, but more frequently used in medicine. It was used by the Romans to treat digestive and respiratory issues, and is still used in modern medicine for a variety of conditions. 

Parsley piert produces a vast number of seeds all season long and can rapidly cover significant areas of the lawn, especially where the grass is sparse or bare. It has a fibrous root system and forms a tight low growing mat over the soil. Parley piert can tolerate close mowing, and can take over areas of the lawn, smothering grass and other plants. 

Removal by hand is an effective means of controlling parsley piert, it is shallow rooting and comes out of the soil readily. Mowing height should not be too low as this places stress on the grass plants and provides an opportunity for parsley piert to become established. Soils should be kept moist, and good lawn maintenance will go a long way in controlling parsley piert.