Permapotes

Coriander

Coriander: Sowing, planting and harvest calendar

Coriander, Coriandrum sativum, is an annual aromatic herb in the carrot family. Also known as Chinese parsley, it nevertheless has a flavour identity distinct from parsley. Its leaves, flowers and seeds all have a place in the kitchen. This diversity of uses is one of its main attractions: the same plant provides a fresh herb and a spice, with different aromas. It therefore suits several culinary interests rather than serving only as a green garnish. In some English speaking countries, its fresh leaves are called cilantro.

The foliage changes appearance as the plant develops. The lower leaves have relatively broad lobes, while those higher on the stems become more finely divided. The plant then takes on a light silhouette, with upright, branching stems. Small white or slightly pink flowers are grouped in umbels, like tiny bouquets spread out above the foliage. This change from fuller leaves to more airy flowering growth is part of its annual life cycle and its appearance in the garden.

The fresh leaves have a distinctive aroma that is recognisable in salads, sauces and vegetable dishes. They feature in many cuisines, particularly those of Asia and Latin America. Their flavour gives a clear character to a dish, whether they accompany raw ingredients or cooked preparations. Coriander can therefore have an important aromatic role even in a small quantity. The edible flowers offer another possible presentation, with a delicate shape that contrasts with pieces of vegetables in a salad.

The seeds used as a spice are the small dried fruits of the plant. Their rounded appearance and aroma differ from those of the fresh foliage. Whole or ground, they are used in spice blends, curries and pickled preparations. The distinction between leaves and seeds is therefore important when choosing a use: they come from the same species but do not give the same aromatic result. This dual identity explains why coriander belongs among both culinary herbs and spices.

There are varieties selected for later flowering, such as ‘Calypso’, as well as types sold under the name ‘Slow-bolt’. They are particularly interesting when your priority is the foliage. Flowering nevertheless remains a normal stage for this annual, followed by fruit formation. When choosing a plant, the flavour of the leaves, the possible use of the seeds and coriander’s changing silhouette provide three complementary points of reference.

Coriander
Coriander
Characteristics
  • Lifecycle : Annual
  • Exposure : Partial Shade
  • Frost Hardiness : Frost Resistant
  • Cultivation Difficulty : Medium
  • Mature height : 60 cm
Sowing & Planting
  • Greenhouse Growing : Not Required
  • Sowing Depth : 0.5 cm
  • Plant Spacing : 15 cm
  • Row Spacing : 30 cm
Maintenance
  • Maintenance : Moderate
  • Water Requirements : Moderate
Other characteristics
  • Soil Type : Humus-rich
  • Soil pH Preference : Neutral
  • Pest Sensitivity : Moderate
  • Disease Sensitivity : Moderate
  • Weed Sensitivity : Moderate
  • Pollination : Insect-pollinated
  • Propagation : Sowing