Common Names:

Cilantro, Coriander, Chinese Parsley

Quick Glance:

• Common Use: Culinary herb used for its fresh leaves (cilantro) and dried seeds (coriander) in a wide range of dishes.

• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy annual herb with finely divided leaves and small clusters of white flowers.

• Plant Size: Grows 12–24 inches tall and 6–12 inches wide.

• Light Needs: Thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

• Key Feature: Aromatic leaves with a distinct citrusy flavor and edible seeds with a warm, spicy taste.

ID:

Scientific Name: Coriandrum sativum

Family: Apiaceae

Varieties:

1. ‘Marino’:A slow-bolting variety with finely divided, bright green leaves. Ideal for gardeners looking for an extended harvest period. Known for its strong flavor and tender texture.

2. ‘Santo’:A popular variety prized for its early maturity and bolt resistance. It grows compactly, making it suitable for both garden beds and containers. Leaves are aromatic and flavorful.

3. ‘Leisure’:A classic, versatile variety known for its lush growth and high yield. It has a robust flavor and is well-suited for both fresh use and seed production.

4. ‘Cruiser’:A vigorous variety with thick, upright leaves and excellent bolt resistance. Cruiser is ideal for commercial production and home gardens, offering a strong cilantro flavor.

   
   

Physical Description:

Cilantro is a fast-growing annual herb with bright green, finely divided, feathery leaves. The plant produces small, white or pale pink flowers in flat clusters (umbels) during the flowering stage. As it matures, the plant forms round, ribbed seeds that are used as a spice. Both the leaves and seeds are highly aromatic, but with distinct flavors.

Plant Size:

• Height: 12–24 inches.

• Width: 6–12 inches.

Light Requirement:

Prefers full sun but benefits from partial shade in warmer climates to delay bolting.

How to Grow:

• Soil: Thrives in well-draining, moderately fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0–7.5). Enrich the soil with compost or organic matter before planting.

• Transplanting: Cilantro has a delicate taproot and does not transplant well. If starting indoors, use biodegradable pots to minimize root disturbance. Transplant seedlings carefully when they are 2–3 inches tall, spacing plants 6–8 inches apart. Water thoroughly after planting.

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Cilantro prefers evenly moist conditions for optimal growth.

• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost at planting. Cilantro is a light feeder and doesn’t require heavy fertilization.

• Harvesting: Begin harvesting leaves when plants are 4–6 inches tall. Snip outer leaves as needed for a continuous supply. Allow the plant to flower and produce seeds if coriander is desired.

Container Growing:

• Container Size: Use a pot at least 8–12 inches deep with good drainage.

• Soil: Fill with nutrient-rich, well-draining potting mix.

• Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.

• Placement: Position the container in full sun or partial shade in hot climates.

Pest Management:

• Common Pests: Aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites.

• Solutions: Spray pests with water or use insecticidal soap. Cilantro’s strong aroma generally deters most pests.

• Diseases: Rarely affected by diseases but can develop fungal issues in overly wet or humid conditions. Ensure proper drainage and good air circulation.

Spreading Habit:

• Spreading: Cilantro is a self-seeding annual that readily spreads if allowed to flower and set seed.

• How to Handle: Remove flower stalks to delay bolting or allow plants to self-seed for a continuous crop.

Companion Planting:

Cilantro grows well with vegetables and herbs that benefit from its pest-repelling qualities:

• Tomatoes and Peppers: Deters aphids and spider mites.

• Carrots and Parsnips: Improves soil conditions and supports beneficial insects.

• Basil and Dill: Shares similar growing conditions and enhances pollinator activity.

How to Use:

• Culinary: Cilantro leaves are used fresh in salsas, curries, soups, and garnishes, while the seeds (coriander) are ground or used whole as a spice in baked goods, pickling, and meat dishes.

• Nutritional Benefits: Cilantro is a nutrient-dense herb, providing high levels of vitamins A, C, and K. It is also a source of dietary fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. Cilantro may support digestion and provide anti-inflammatory properties.

• Ornamental: Its feathery foliage and delicate flowers make cilantro an attractive addition to herb gardens and edible landscapes.

Recipe Ideas:

1. Cilantro Lime Rice:

   • Ingredients: Fresh cilantro, lime juice, cooked rice, and salt.

   • Instructions: Toss cooked rice with chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Serve as a side dish.

2. Cilantro Pesto:

   • Ingredients: Fresh cilantro leaves, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and nuts (optional).

   • Instructions: Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Use as a sauce for pasta, meats, or vegetables.

3. Coriander-Spiced Roasted Vegetables:

   • Ingredients: Coriander seeds, olive oil, carrots, potatoes, and parsnips.

   • Instructions: Toss vegetables with crushed coriander seeds, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F until tender.