Cilantro
Coriandrum sativum
Learn how to care for cilantro along with its history and classification details.
Hardiness Zone: 3-8
Soil Type: Slightly acidic
Sun Exposure: Full to partial sun
Annual or Perennial: Annual
Type: Herb
History: Featured in the cuisines of the Middle East, North Africa, Europe and Asia, cilantro has a culinary history dating back millennia. Its seeds were found in 8,000-year-old caves in Israel. There are ancient Sanskrit and biblical references to coriander.
How to Care for Cilantro
Common questions and details on how to care for cilantro.
How do I plant cilantro?
Plant cilantro during the cool days of spring or fall. Grow cilantro in an area that receives full sun and has rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.2 to 6.8. Offer afternoon shade if you live in a warmer climate. Improve native soil by mixing in several inches of aged compost or other rich organic matter.
When is the best time to plant?
The best time to plant cilantro is in the spring or fall.
How do I propagate cilantro?
Cut off a healthy stem about 3 to 5 inches (8-13 cm.) long just below a node, where the leaves grow. Remove the lower leaves and place the end of the cutting in water. Let it sit in gentle, indirect sunlight where it won’t get too cold.
Can I grow chives in a pot?
Yes, you can grow cilantro in a pot.
How much should I water cilantro?
Cilantro likes moist soil, take care not to over water.
How do I care for cilantro with fertilizer?
Chives prefer to be fertilized infrequently.
How do I know when cilantro is ripe?
Cilantro is ripe when the stems are about six to eight inches (15 to 20 cm) long.
When do I harvest cilantro?
Cilantro is ready to be cut from the plant about 4 weeks after planting.
What is the best way to store cilantro?
Fill a jar or a water glass partially with water and place the stem ends of the herbs into the water in the jar. Cover and store.
If you are storing the herbs in the refrigerator, cover loosely with a plastic bag. Cilantro loves cool temperatures and should be stored in the refrigerator.
Should I plant any companion plants?
Cilantro grows well with basil, mint, yarrow, or tansy.
What are the health benefits of the cilantro?
Cilantro has been used as a medicinal aid for cancer, measles, toothaches.
5 Ingredient Cilantro Vinaigrette
This is a divine dressing on a summer salad that is 5 ingredients and made in the blender.
I decided the history in books should be like spice in soup – a little went a long way. Like cilantro.
~Deborah Harkness