Coriandrum sativum /kɔ.riˈan.drũː/
Common name: Cilantro · Coriander
Coriandrum sativum is a fast-growing annual herb in the carrot family, Apiaceae, native to southern Europe and North Africa. Its fresh leaves (cilantro) and dried seeds (coriander) are both widely used in cooking. It bolts quickly in warm weather, flowering and setting seed within weeks.
Care summary
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Regular; keep soil evenly moist
Soil
Rich, moist, well-draining
Hardiness
Grown as annual in all zones
Mature height
0.3–0.6 m (1–2 ft)
Pet safe
Non-toxic to cats and dogs
Difficulty
Moderate
Propagation
Grown from seed sown directly where it is to grow, as it resents transplanting. Sow 1 cm deep in moist, well-draining soil, keep consistently damp, and thin seedlings to about 15 cm apart; sow small batches every few weeks for a continuous supply.
Fun facts
- The leaves are called cilantro and the dried seeds are called coriander — two spices from one plant.
- Some people perceive cilantro as tasting like soap, a trait linked to the OR6A2 gene.
- Cilantro bolts (flowers) quickly in heat, so it is often sown in succession for a steady harvest.
- Coriander seeds have been found in ancient Egyptian tombs, including Tutankhamun's.