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Freeport Gardening Guide: Cilantro/Coriander

This is a how to guide to help anyone get started in gardening.

Cilantro/Coriander

Cilantro is a fast-growing, aromatic, annual herb that grows best in the cooler weather of spring and fall. Here’s how to grow cilantro (and coriander) in your garden.

This herb is used to flavor many recipes, and the entire plant is edible, though the leaves and seeds are used most often.

Cilantro vs. Coriander
Cilantro and coriander are different parts of the same plant.

Cilantro, Coriandrum sativum, usually refers to the leaves of the plant, which are used as an herb. This describes the vegetative stage of the plant’s life cycle.

Coriander refers to the seeds, which are typically ground and used as a spice. This happens after the plant flowers and develops seeds.

For more information on how to grow cilantro click the following hyperlink to Farmers Almanac Cilantro.

For other resources please click on Gardening Know How's Cilantro link.  

Cilantro Seeds, Dwarf Lemon:

Description: (Coriandrum sativum). Amazing, subtle citrus flavor adds a welcome twist to this ancient herb. There is no limit to the culinary potential! The compact plants and seeds are all super flavorful!  Dwarf Lemon cilantro is ideal for container gardening or small garden spaces due to its smaller growth habit. It grows best in cooler conditions and can tolerate light frost. Plant in full sun to partial shade. Succession-sow for consistent supply.

A close-up detail of Dwarf Lemon Cilantro leaves on bright lemon-yellow background.

 

Cilantro Seeds, Slo-Bolt:

Description: (Coriandrum sativum). An easy-to-grow and more bolt-resistant version of one of the most popular herbs. Cilantro is considered essential to the cuisines of many cultures, from Mexican to Thai and no matter your cooking style, no garden is complete without cilantro. Planting frequent successions just a few weeks apart is the best method to ensure the most fresh and flavorful cilantro.  Slo-Bolt cilantro is ideal for gardeners who experience warmer temperatures or wish to have a more extended supply of cilantro leaves. It grows best in cooler conditions and can tolerate light frost. Plant in full sun to partial shade.

A close-up view of Slo-Bolt Cilantro leaves.

 

Coriander Seeds, Indian:

Description: (Coriandrum sativum). Highly scented with a citrus top note. The dark green leaves are regularly cut to prevent this fast growing variety of Indian coriander from bolting. Once bolted, the seeds are a must in Indian dishes and are especially good when used still “green” and tender.  Indian coriander, also known as cilantro or dhaniya is relatively easy to grow, and with the right conditions, it can produce a bountiful harvest. It grows best in cooler conditions and can tolerate light frost. Plant in full sun to partial shade.

Hands holding some freshly harvested Indian Coriander in a garden at Baker Creek.