Celery

Apium graveolens

Apiaceae · vegetables · Mediterranean, Europe

EdibleHigh Maintenance

About Celery

A challenging but rewarding vegetable requiring consistent moisture and cool temperatures. Growing your own celery reveals a far superior flavor to store-bought. Also grown for its flavorful leaves and seeds.

Growing Conditions

☀️

Sun

Full Sun

💧💧💧

Water

High

🌱

Soil

Rich, Moist

📈

Growth Rate

Slow

🌸

Bloom Season

Summer-Fall

🌈

Bloom Color

White (small)

Size & Dimensions

Height

Spread

Hardiness Zone Range

Suitable for USDA Zones 2 through 10

Plant Details

Family	Apiaceae
Category	Vegetables
Native Region	Mediterranean, Europe
Scientific Name	Apium graveolens

Care Tips

✓Start seeds 10-12 weeks before last frost — needs light to germinate.
✓Keep soil consistently moist.
✓Blanch stalks by mounding soil or using cardboard for milder flavor.

Fun Facts

★Celery is so low in calories that eating it supposedly burns more calories than it contains (mostly myth — it's about 6 calories per stalk).
★Ancient Greeks awarded celery wreaths to athletes.

Was this data helpful?

Data verified: 2026-04

USDA Plants Database Missouri Botanical Garden

Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones can Celery grow in?

Celery (Apium graveolens) thrives in USDA hardiness zones 2 through 10. This means it can tolerate winter temperatures typical of these zones. Check your local zone to ensure it is suitable for your area.

How much sun and water does Celery need?

Celery requires full sun and has high water needs. It grows best in rich, moist soil. Regular watering is recommended, especially during dry periods.

How tall and wide does Celery grow?

Celery typically reaches 2' tall with a spread of 8". It has a slow growth rate and requires high maintenance. Plan your garden spacing accordingly to give it room to reach its full size.

Is Celery deer resistant?

Celery is not typically considered deer resistant. If deer are common in your area, consider protecting young plants with fencing or using deer repellent sprays during the growing season.

When does Celery bloom and is it edible?

Celery blooms in summer-fall, producing white (small) flowers. Parts of this plant are edible and can be used in cooking or eaten fresh. It belongs to the Apiaceae family and is native to Mediterranean, Europe.

Explore More Data Tools

For adjacent public-data tools, methodology notes, and network updates, visit DataPeek Facts.