Coriander
Coriandrum sativum
Also known as
Cilantro, Chinese Parsley
Starr 070906-8875 Coriandrum sativum by Forest & Kim Starr (CC BY 3.0)
Full Sun
Easy care
Moderate watering
Frost Hardy
H7-H4
RHS hardiness
-20°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
50cm | Max | 50cm |
20cm | Min | 20cm |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has a mild fragrance
More images of Coriander
Coriander Overview
Coriandrum sativum is an annual herb that is often used in curries, chutneys and even soups. It is commonly called Coriander or Cilantro. Coriander is a multi-use plant that has also been used in homoeopathic digestive remedies. The umbels of purple flowers make it an attractive plant that can also be used in bedding displays for cottage-style gardens. It can be used as insect repellent too, the seeds and leaves are used in cooking, often with meat in the making of biltong.
Common problems with Coriander
Aphids, various mites, thrips and whitefly. Check under the leaves and inspect regularly.
Coriander Companion Plants
How to harvest Coriander
Harvest the young leaves constantly throughout the growing season though they do not store dry well. Freezing the fresh leaves is the best storage method. Let the seeds dry on the plants and harvest when brown.
How to propagate Coriander
Seed
Sowing time ideally in spring/summer. The spacing between 15-20 cm with a sowing depth of 6-8 mm. Germination time on average is around 7-12 days. Thin or replant the little seedlings as soon as they can be handled.
Special features of Coriander
Attracts butterflies
Attracts bees
Repels harmful insects
Repels Aphids and Carrot Root Fly
Other uses of Coriander
Culinary
Edible
Leaves are used to flavour spicy Asian or Middle Eastern dishes. The dried seeds is an important herb in biltong and boerewors. The leaves have a different taste from the seeds.
Insect repellent
The scent of the leaves keep flies away.
Medicinal
It has been used in several homoeopathic digestive remedies.
Edibles to Sow Outdoors in July
Successional sowings of these quick growing and cropping plants will fill spaces and ensure a prolonged harvest.
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