Grow your own bold, aromatic herb with Coriander seeds (Eryngium foetidum), also known as Culantro (Latin America), Ngo Gai (Vietnamese), Recao (Caribbean), or Longleaf Coriander. This heat-loving cousin of cilantro delivers a stronger, richer flavor that holds up better in hot climates — perfect for salsas, soups, curries, and pho!
How to Plant Coriander (Culantro) Seeds:
Seed Prep (Optional):
Soak seeds in warm water for 8–12 hours before planting to speed up germination.
Sowing Seeds:
Sow shallowly, about 1/8 inch deep, into moist, well-draining soil.
Germination takes 14–28 days — be patient!
When to Plant:
Best sown in spring or early summer when temperatures are 70–90°F (21–32°C).
Ideal for tropical, subtropical, or warm temperate regions.
Sunlight:
Prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight — too much direct sun can scorch the leaves.
In cooler regions, can tolerate more sun.
Soil:
Grows best in rich, moist, well-drained soil with good organic matter.
Spacing:
Space plants 8–12 inches apart for a full leafy harvest.
Watering:
Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells.
Harvesting:
Begin harvesting when plants reach 6–8 inches tall.
Regular cutting encourages new leaf growth and prevents early flowering (bolting).
Pro Tip: Coriander is slow to germinate but fast to grow once established — making it a fantastic summer alternative to cilantro where heat quickly ends the season.
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