Coriander, Chinese Parsley, Cilantro, Dhania
Both known as Cilantro and Coriander, Coriandrum sativum is a warm-weather annual herb, celebrated for its aromatic leaves and flavorful seeds. With deep roots in ancient cultures, it is cherished in cuisines worldwide, including Indian, Latin American, Caribbean, French, Greek, and North African dishes. Cilantro is increasingly recognized for its impressive health benefits and culinary versatility, featuring prominently in popular recipes like cilantro lime rice and cilantro lime chicken.
Though cilantro and coriander come from the same plant, they are used differently in the kitchen. In the United States, “cilantro” refers to the fresh leaves and stems, while “coriander” refers to the dried seeds.
In contrast, in Europe and many other parts of the world, “coriander” describes the entire plant — both the leaves and the seeds.
Cilantro belongs to the Apiaceae family, one of the most prominent families of flowering plants with over 3,800 species. This family also includes popular herbs and vegetables such as chervil, celery, carrot, lovage, cumin, dill, fennel, and parsley.
Native to the Mediterranean Basin, including Southern Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa, cilantro has been cultivated for thousands of years. Seeds of the plant were found in the tomb of the Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun, highlighting its ancient importance.
Cilantro grows in a clump-forming habit, reaching 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) in height and 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) in width. Its lower leaves are broad and lobed, resembling Italian parsley, while the upper leaves are finely divided and feathery.
In summer, the plant produces loose umbels of tiny white to pale lavender flowers, which are highly attractive to pollinators. These flowers give way to round seeds, commonly known as coriander seeds.
Cilantro is a cool-season annual herb that thrives best in USDA hardiness zones 2–11. It prefers cool weather, growing best in temperatures between 50–85°F (10–29°C). It can tolerate light frosts, especially in spring and fall, but it struggles and bolts quickly in extreme heat.
Cilantro is a fast-growing annual herb that typically reaches maturity in just 45–70 days after sowing. It is a favorite for herb gardens, vegetable gardens, kitchen gardens, containers, and cottage gardens. Low-maintenance, relatively pest-resistant, and easy to grow, this herb is ideal for gardeners of all skill levels.
All parts of the plant are edible — the leaves, stems, seeds, and roots. The fresh leaves are famously used in dishes like cilantro lime rice, cilantro lime chicken, and cilantro lime sauce, while the seeds are dried and ground into coriander powder for seasoning soups, stews, and curries around the world.
Cilantro offers numerous health benefits. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and packed with antioxidants that help protect the body against free radical damage. Studies suggest that the plant may support heart health, promote healthy digestion, help regulate blood sugar levels, and even offer antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Its impressive nutrient profile makes it a flavorful way to boost overall wellness.
Curious why cilantro benefits your diet? This flavorful herb is not only a culinary star but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Here’s what 100g of fresh cilantro delivers:
Nutrient | Amount | Benefit |
---|---|---|
Calories | 23 kcal | Low in calories, perfect for weight management. |
Protein | 2.1g | Supports muscle maintenance and repair. |
Carbohydrates | 3.7g | Provides energy with minimal sugar content. |
Dietary Fiber | 2.8g | Promotes digestive health and satiety. |
Vitamin A | 337 mcg (38% DV) | Vital for vision, immune system, and skin health. |
Vitamin C | 27 mg (30% DV) | Boosts immune function and antioxidant protection. |
Vitamin K | 310 mcg (258% DV) | Crucial for blood clotting and bone strength. |
Folate | 62 mcg (16% DV) | Important for cell division and heart health. |
Calcium | 67 mg (7% DV) | Strengthens bones and teeth. |
Iron | 1.8 mg (10% DV) | Enhances blood health and energy levels. |
Magnesium | 26 mg (6% DV) | Essential for muscle and nerve function. |
Potassium | 521 mg (11% DV) | Helps maintain healthy blood pressure. |
DV stands for Daily Value — the recommended daily intake based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
100g is much more than most people eat at once (a large bunch), so while the nutrient content is accurate per 100g, typical serving sizes are much smaller.
Adding fresh cilantro leaves or ground coriander seeds to your meals doesn’t just elevate the flavor — it delivers an impressive boost to your health, too. Here’s why this herb deserves a starring role in your kitchen and garden:
Rich in Essential Nutrients: Cilantro is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with important minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, and magnesium, supporting strong bones, a resilient immune system, and overall vitality.
Powerful Antioxidant Protection: Brimming with antioxidants such as quercetin and beta-carotene, the plant helps fight free radical damage and may lower the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and cancer.
Supports Heart Health: Research suggests that this herb’s natural compounds can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Its phytonutrients offer natural support against inflammation, making it a valuable herb for easing arthritis, allergies, and other inflammatory conditions.
Detoxifying Effects: Known for its chelating properties, cilantro may assist the body in eliminating heavy metals like mercury, lead, and aluminum — a popular reason it’s included in many detox diets.
Boosts Digestion: Both cilantro leaves and coriander seeds stimulate digestion, helping to ease bloating, reduce cramps, and promote a healthier gut microbiome.
Natural Antimicrobial Activity: The plant exhibits antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help defend against foodborne pathogens and common infections.
May Help Regulate Blood Sugar: Early studies suggest that it can help lower blood sugar levels, offering potential support for managing type 2 diabetes naturally.
Promotes Skin Health: Thanks to its high vitamin C content and antioxidant power, cilantro may help reduce signs of aging, protect against UV damage, and boost skin hydration for a youthful glow.
Freshens Breath and Supports Oral Health: Beyond its bright flavor, this plant naturally helps neutralize bad breath and fight bacteria that can harm oral health.
Note: While this herb offers many health benefits, individuals with allergies or medical conditions should consult a healthcare provider before making major dietary changes.
Cilantro isn’t just a star in your kitchen—it’s also a powerhouse for your garden. Its delicate flowers attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, hoverflies, parasitoid wasps, and lacewings, all of which prey on common garden pests.
Cilantro repels aphids, spider mites, and potato beetles. Planting this herb alongside your vegetables or fruit trees can significantly boost your garden’s natural resilience and productivity.
It is also a larval host plant for beautiful swallowtail butterflies, such as the Black Swallowtail butterfly.
Few herbs spark as much debate as cilantro! Whether you love it or hate it, its flavor profile is unforgettable.
Fresh cilantro leaves deliver a vibrant, citrusy, slightly peppery taste that brightens dishes like cilantro lime rice or cilantro lime chicken. For many, the herb adds a refreshing, almost lemony spark that pairs beautifully with spicy, savory, or creamy flavors.
However, due to a genetic variation affecting the OR6A2 gene, some people perceive cilantro’s aldehyde compounds as tasting soapy or pungent. This fascinating trait explains the polarizing reactions to its flavor across different cultures and individuals.
In contrast, coriander seeds — harvested from the same plant — offer a completely different experience. They boast a warm, nutty, slightly sweet flavor with subtle citrus notes, making them perfect for spice blends, curries, and savory baked goods.
Whether you love cilantro’s zing or prefer the mellow depth of ground coriander, both parts of the plant offer irresistible ways to flavor your favorite recipes.
Cilantro’s lively flavor and versatility make it an essential herb in kitchens around the world. Here’s how to bring it to life in your meals!
Chop fresh cilantro leaves and toss them into green salads, avocado salads, or fruit salads for a bright, refreshing boost. It’s also a classic salsa ingredient, especially in authentic Mexican recipes.
Add chopped leaves and a squeeze of lime juice to freshly cooked rice for a quick cilantro lime rice that’s perfect alongside tacos, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables.
Marinate chicken with cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and cumin for a juicy and flavorful cilantro lime chicken perfect for grilling or baking.
Use chopped leaves as a garnish on hearty soups like tortilla soup, black bean soup, or lentil stew. Add them at the very end of cooking to preserve its fresh flavor.
Blend cilantro with yogurt, lime juice, and olive oil to create a creamy cilantro lime sauce that pairs wonderfully with seafood, tacos, and salads.
Swap basil for cilantro in your favorite pesto recipe! Blend cilantro with hazelnuts or walnuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil for a zesty cilantro pesto perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or grilled veggies.
Sprinkle fresh leaves over grain bowls featuring quinoa, rice, or farro for a vibrant, herbal note.
Simply scatter fresh leaves over finished dishes like tacos, enchiladas, curries, noodle soups, or grilled fish. It instantly brightens the plate with color and flavor.
Tip: Always add cilantro at the end of cooking to preserve its fresh, citrusy aroma and flavor!
If you’re out of cilantro or don’t enjoy its taste, several fresh herbs can step in as excellent alternatives:
Substitute | Flavor Profile | Best Used In |
---|---|---|
Parsley | Fresh, mild, slightly peppery | Salads, salsas, and garnishes |
Basil (especially Thai basil) | Sweet, slightly spicy, aromatic | Asian dishes, stir-fries, curries |
Mint | Cool, refreshing, sweet | Salads, dips, Mediterranean dishes |
Dill | Grassy, slightly tangy | Salads, dressings, seafood recipes |
Vietnamese Coriander | Peppery, lemony, slightly spicy | Southeast Asian dishes, soups |
Tip: Always taste-test your substitute first — a little can go a long way depending on the herb!
Growing cilantro is easy and highly rewarding. With its quick growth cycle and culinary versatility, it is a must-have herb for both beginners and seasoned gardeners.
This herb thrives in full sun but appreciates light shade in warmer climates. Shade helps prevent bolting and keeps the leaves tender and flavorful.
Plant in fertile, well-draining soil enriched with compost or organic matter. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH between 6.2 and 6.8 for best results.
Sow cilantro seeds in early spring, after the last frost, or in late summer for a fall harvest. In warmer regions, you can also plant them in fall for a lush spring crop.
Sow seeds about 1/2 inch (1 cm) deep and 2 inches (5 cm) apart directly into the soil or containers. Thin seedlings to 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) apart once they develop true leaves. If planting in rows, space them about 12 inches (30 cm) apart to promote airflow and healthy growth.
Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. The plant prefers moderate moisture—about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week is ideal. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungal issues.
Cilantro tends to bolt quickly in hot, dry conditions. To delay bolting, plant it where it can receive afternoon shade and choose slow-bolting varieties. Remove flower stalks early to extend the leaf harvest.
For a steady supply of fresh leaves, sow cilantro seeds every 2–3 weeks throughout the growing season. Succession planting ensures continuous harvests.
This herb isn’t a heavy feeder. Apply compost at planting time, and consider a light feeding of nitrogen-rich fertilizer once or twice during the growing season to boost leafy growth without encouraging premature flowering.
Cilantro adapts beautifully to container gardening. Choose a deep pot (at least 8–10 inches) to accommodate its long taproot. Ensure good drainage and consistent watering for optimal growth.
Harvest when the plants are about 6 inches (15 cm) tall, usually between 45–70 days after sowing. Pick leaves early and often to encourage fresh new growth.
Snip individual leaves from the top to keep the plant lush, or cut the entire plant about 1–2 inches (2–5 cm) above the soil for a full harvest. Frequent harvesting delays bolting and maximizes leaf production.
Place freshly cut cilantro upright in a glass of water, loosely cover with a plastic bag, and store in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about 5–7 days. Alternatively, wrap leaves in a damp paper towel and place them inside a zip-lock bag.
For longer preservation, chop and freeze it in ice cube trays with water or olive oil. This method is perfect for adding bursts of flavor to soups, stews, and sautés.
Cilantro isn’t just a flavorful kitchen staple — it’s also a powerhouse companion plant in the garden! Planting this little herb near the right companions can enhance growth, attract beneficial insects, and naturally control pests, making your garden healthier and more productive.
While cilantro is a great garden neighbor to many plants, it should not be planted near fennel. Fennel can inhibit seed formation and stunt cilantro’s growth, making it a poor companion choice.
While cilantro is relatively low-maintenance, it can occasionally be affected by pests and diseases. Knowing how to identify and manage these problems early ensures a healthy, productive harvest.
Aphids: Small, sap-sucking insects that cause leaf curling, yellowing, and distortion. Control them with a strong spray of water, insecticidal soap, or neem oil.
Cabbage Loopers: These pests chew large holes in the leaves. Handpick caterpillars or treat with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), an organic solution safe for food crops.
Slugs and Snails: These leave irregular holes and slime trails. Use copper barriers, nighttime handpicking, or apply diatomaceous earth around plants.
Grasshoppers and Leafhoppers: These insects feed on leaves, causing ragged edges and potentially transmitting plant diseases. Minimize their impact with row covers and by encouraging natural predators.
Downy Mildew: Causes yellow spots on upper leaf surfaces and fluffy white growth underneath. Promote airflow, avoid wetting leaves, and remove infected foliage.
Powdery Mildew: A white, powdery coating on leaves. Improve air circulation and apply sulfur-based organic fungicides if needed.
Damping-Off: A fungal disease affecting seedlings, leading to sudden collapse. Prevent it by using sterile potting soil, avoiding overwatering, and ensuring proper ventilation.
Leaf Spot: Causes dark lesions on the leaves. Remove affected plants promptly and practice crop rotation to reduce future outbreaks.
Wondering about parsley versus cilantro? Although they belong to the same family, cilantro has a stronger, citrusy flavor, while parsley is milder and slightly bitter. When you’re looking for a cilantro substitute, flat-leaf parsley often works beautifully in many recipes.
Yes, dogs can safely eat cilantro in small amounts. It can offer digestive benefits and freshen their breath. However, too much cilantro may cause mild stomach upset, so moderation is key.
To cut cilantro, rinse the bunch under cool water and pat dry. Gather the stems together, then use a sharp knife to chop the leaves and tender stems. For the best flavor, cut cilantro just before adding it to your dishes.
Store cilantro by placing the stems upright in a glass of water, like a bouquet. Cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag and refrigerate. Change the water every couple of days to keep it fresh longer.
To keep cilantro fresh, trim the stem ends, place the bunch in a jar of water, cover the top loosely with a plastic bag, and refrigerate. Alternatively, wrap the cilantro in a damp paper towel and place it inside a resealable bag in the fridge.
Yes, you can freeze cilantro! Chop the leaves and place them in ice cube trays with a little water or olive oil. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. Frozen cilantro works best in cooked dishes rather than fresh salads.
Yes, cats can safely eat cilantro in small amounts. It is non-toxic to cats and may even offer mild health benefits. However, some cats may not enjoy the taste, and large quantities could cause mild digestive upset.
Hardiness |
2 - 11 |
---|---|
Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A1, A2, A3, H1, H2 |
Plant Type | Annuals, Herbs |
Plant Family | Apiaceae |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Summer (Mid, Late), Fall |
Height | 1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm) |
Spread | 1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm) |
Spacing | 6" - 8" (15cm - 20cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy |
Attracts | Butterflies |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage |
Sunbunny Studio, DD Images, Kostrez, Shutterstock
Hardiness |
2 - 11 |
---|---|
Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, A1, A2, A3, H1, H2 |
Plant Type | Annuals, Herbs |
Plant Family | Apiaceae |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Summer (Mid, Late), Fall |
Height | 1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm) |
Spread | 1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm) |
Spacing | 6" - 8" (15cm - 20cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy |
Attracts | Butterflies |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage |
How many Coriandrum sativum (Cilantro) do I need for my garden?
Plant | Quantity | |
---|---|---|
Coriandrum sativum (Cilantro) | N/A | Buy Plants |
Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!
Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
Join now and start creating your dream garden!