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Plant of the Month
thymus vulgaris flower
thymus vulgaris flower
thymus vulgaris flower
thymus vulgaris flower

Cilantro

Grow your own cilantro, a staple herb for global cuisines, thriving in cool, moist conditions and perfect for container gardening.
Coriandrum sativum, known as coriander or cilantro, is an annual herb in the family Apiaceae. Known for its fragrant, citrusy leaves and dried seeds, which are used as spices in a variety of cuisines worldwide. The plant grows quickly in cool, moist conditions and can reach up to 2 feet in height. Its leaves are delicate, with a lacy appearance, and the white or pale pink flowers bloom in small umbels. Coriander seeds are round and beige, with a flavor that turns sweeter as they cook.

Plant Features

Annual Herbaceous Plant
Coriandrum sativum, known as coriander or cilantro, is an annual herb that exhibits a delicate and lacy appearance. It can grow up to 2 feet in height and its leaves are known for their fragrant, citrusy aroma. The plant blooms with white or pale pink flowers in small umbels, enhancing its visual appeal. The seeds of the plant are round and beige, becoming sweeter as they cook, adding a distinctive element to its profile. This combination of delicate leaves and attractive flowers makes cilantro a pleasing addition to any space.
Pest-Deterring Garden Plant
Coriandrum sativum thrives in cool, moist conditions, making it suitable for a variety of garden settings. It grows quickly and easily, which is ideal for gardeners who appreciate a plant that provides a continuous supply of herbs. Cilantro is also helpful in the garden for attracting beneficial insects and helping to naturally deter pests. Its fast growth and preference for cooler, moist environments make it a practical choice for culinary enthusiasts and gardeners alike.
Culinary and Brewing Uses
Coriandrum sativum is highly versatile in the kitchen, serving as a staple in Mexican, Indian, and Southeast Asian cuisines. The fresh leaves, or cilantro, are used in salsas, curries, and salads for their distinctive flavor. The dried seeds, known as coriander, are used whole or ground to impart a warm, earthy note to various dishes. Beyond cooking, coriander seeds are also employed in brewing certain styles of Belgian wheat beers. Additionally, the edible roots of the plant are utilized in Thai cuisine to add a deep, aromatic flavor to dishes.
Plant Care
Care Instructions and Tips
Grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
Needs consistent moisture and should be watered regularly, especially in dry conditions.
Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Requires little maintenance beyond regular harvesting of leaves to encourage new growth. Goes to seed quickly, so frequent sowing is recommended.
Produces small white to pale pink flowers in late spring to early summer before setting seeds.

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