Coriander
Also known as
Cilantro, Chinese parsley, Dhania
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Coriander
Coriandrum sativum, commonly known as coriander or cilantro, is a fast-growing annual in the carrot family (Apiaceae). Native to the eastern Mediterranean and Southwest Asia, it forms a soft rosette of finely dissected, aromatic foliage used fresh as cilantro, while its spherical, ridged seeds (coriander) are harvested once umbels of tiny white to pink flowers set fruit. Plants reach 30–60 cm tall, with lower leaves broad and lobed, upper leaves feathery, and hollow stems. A cool-season herb, it prefers moderate temperatures and even moisture, bolting rapidly in heat or drought. Successive sowings extend the harvest. Highly valued in global cuisines, it lends citrusy, slightly peppery notes to salsas, curries, chutneys, and pickles. The flowers attract beneficial insects, making it a useful companion in diversified gardens. In containers, it thrives in a deep, well-drained pot with rich, friable soil. Because the taproot dislikes disturbance, it is best direct-sown or transplanted only when very young.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Coriander
Water
Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Water deeply to wet the top 15–20 cm, then allow the top 2–3 cm to dry before watering again. In hot or windy weather, containers may need daily attention; in-ground plantings often require about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water per week, more in sandy soils. Mulch lightly to reduce evaporation and cool roots. Avoid frequent light sprinkles and overhead watering late in the day, which can encourage foliar disease.
Light
Provide full sun in cool, temperate seasons and bright, filtered light or morning sun plus afternoon shade in hot regions. Aim for 4–6 hours of direct sun daily for leafy harvests; more intense all-day sun accelerates bolting in warm weather. Indoors, place near a south-facing window or under full-spectrum grow lights for 12–14 hours per day. Ensure good air circulation to reduce fungal issues without excessively drying the soil.
Nutrients
Feed lightly: coriander flavors best in moderately fertile soil. Incorporate compost at planting, then use a balanced, nitrogen-lean fertilizer at half strength every 3–4 weeks during leafy growth. Excess nitrogen can produce lush but diluted flavor and encourage soft growth prone to disease. Container plants benefit from a slow-release organic mix or a diluted fish/seaweed emulsion. Once plants initiate flower stalks, stop fertilizing and allow seed heads to develop for coriander harvest.
Temperature
Coriander is a cool-season annual. Ideal temperatures are 10–21°C (50–70°F); growth slows and bolting accelerates above 24–26°C (75–79°F). Provide afternoon shade and mulch in hot climates to prolong leaf production. Plants tolerate light frosts once established but are damaged by hard freezes below about −5°C (23°F). Germination is best at 12–22°C (54–72°F). Indoor growers should keep nights above 10°C (50°F) and avoid heat spikes, which trigger premature flowering.
