Cilantro

Coriandrum sativum (Cilantro)

Commonly known as Cilantro, is a cool-season annual herb valued for its fragrant leaves and versatile culinary use. Commonly grown in herb gardens, vegetable beds, and containers, it provides fresh foliage for cooking while its seeds, known as coriander, are also widely used as a spice. It also attracts beneficial insects and pollinators when allowed to flower.  

Water Requirements: Moderate. Prefers evenly moist soil; water regularly during the growing season but avoid waterlogged conditions.

Soil: Well-draining soil. Performs best in fertile, loamy soils enriched with organic matter but adapts to a variety of soil types with good drainage.

Growth Rate: Fast.

Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer if allowed to bolt; produces small clusters of delicate flowers.

Temperature: Best grown in cool seasons. Performs well in USDA Zones 3–11 as a seasonal annual; tends to bolt quickly in hot weather.

Pruning: Minimal. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage continued growth and delay flowering.

Toxicity: Not considered toxic to people or pets.