Coriander was named after the bedbug emitting the same odor, and it is commonly named cilantro. It originated in southern Europe and reached other areas centuries ago, including the hanging gardens of Babylon. Ancient Sanskrit texts, Egyptian papyrus records, and the Bible all mention coriander. The Chinese believed it imparted immortality, and it was used in love potions in the Middle Ages.
Description
This bright green plant has thin, erect, finely grooved stems and compound, pinnate
leaves. The lower leaves are rounded and lobed, while the upper ones are finely dissected. The tiny white to reddish flowers have compound umbels with three to ten
rays. The outer flowers are larger than the inner ones. The fruit consists of brownish,
globose seeds 1/4 inch long in clusters. The seeds have a musty odor.
Plant type and hardiness
Hardy annual; hardiness zones are not applicable to annuals.
Height and width
Height 12 to 36 inches; width about 6 to 8 inches.
Light and soil
Full sun to partial shade; fairly rich, light, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.6.
Pests and disease
None noted.
Cultivation
Protect the young plants from prevailing winds by planting seeds in a sunny, sheltered location. Work the soil until fine and crumbly, adding a little lime if the soil is too acidic. Sow the seeds in April or May in 1/2-inch-deep drills. Cover, pack the soil down, and keep it moist until seedlings appear. In hot, dry weather, water regularly in late afternoon or evening. As the plants grow, they may need to be staked or supported.
Propagation method
Seeds (remain viable for five to seven years).
Bloom time and color
June to August; white to reddish.
Harvesting
Pick fresh leaves any time during the growing season. Dry leaves in a warm, airy place, crumble, and store in airtight containers. Cover fresh leaves with water and freeze in ice cube trays or wrap leaves in foil and freeze for use within a few
weeks.
Herbal uses
Aromatic, culinary, decorative, and medicinal. Ripe seeds have a pleasant citrus scent and can be used in potpourris. The leaves, seeds, and roots are used in cooking salsas
and curries or as a garnish. Coriander combines well with onion, sausage, clams, oysters, and potatoes. Whole ground seeds are used in salad dressing, cheese, eggs, chili sauces, and guacamole. The plant can be grown in containers as an ornamental. It is said to have some medicinal qualities.
Insider's Secret
Grown near anise, coriander helps the seeds germinate, but grown near fennel, it hinders germination. It grows well with chervil. Honey bees are attracted to the flowers. These plants will ad a strong fragrance to your garden. Their delicate white blooms, although small, are quite numerous and will produce a lovely effect against a varied background of borage and bee balm.
