Cilantro / Coriander Seeds

Cilantro is distinguished by its delicate, lacy green leaves, which resemble flat leaf parsley. The leaves of cilantro are rounded, whereas the leaves of parsley are pointed. The Coriandrum sativum plant produces both cilantro and coriander. In the United States, cilantro refers to the plant's leaves and stem, whereas coriander refers to the dried seeds. Coriander seeds are small and spherical, with longitudinal ridges and a yellowish brown tint.

• Easy to grow annual that serves as an excellent kitchen staple
• Succession planting every two to four weeks will ensure constant cilantro for your kitchen
• Let some plants go to seed-you can dry them for use in future planting
• Adds a fresh zest to soups, salads, and beyond

Cilantro, also called Chinese parsley, is a hardy annual cool season crop. This aromatic herb is alive with a flavor of both citrus and spice that enlivens Mexican, Chinese, Southeast Asian, and Indian foods. Although it is usually just the leaves of the fresh cilantro plant that are the most popular, the pungent seeds (known as coriander), and the tangy roots promise a tasty treat as well.

Cilantro seeds are actually a hard husk that contains two seeds. Crush the husks and then soak your seeds for 24 to 48 hours. Remove from water and allow seeds to dry.

Direct sow cilantro seeds in the early spring, as soon as the threat of frost has passed. In warmer zones, cilantro can also be sown in the fall through the spring. Seeds may be sown at intervals of two to three weeks if a continual harvest is desired. Cilantro seeds prefer cool, but sunny conditions. Soil temperatures that reach 75°F will cause plants to bolt. Choose soil that is light and well-draining. Sow seeds in rows, spaced about 12 inches apart, and cover with 1/4 inch of soil.

Once seedlings reach about two inches in height, thin out plants to a spacing of three to four inches apart. Seeds will germinate in approximately seven to ten days. You can harvest your leaves any time, cutting the fresher leaves towards the top, rather than the older, more mature leaves closer to the bottom. Unlike most herbs, cilantro can be consumed fresh and does not need to be dried for storage or later use.

Once the plant bolts (producing a stalk on which flowers will grow) the leaves lose their flavor, so pinch back frequently to keep flowers at bay. Growing plants in partial shade during a hot spell can help prevent bolting.

Cilantro offers a multitude of health benefits. It contains phytonutrients and antioxidants that provide anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

For more information about planting, growing, and caring for cilantro/coriander seed, see the Cilantro Seeds Planting Guide.