Cilantro (Coriander)
Coriandrum sativum
About 14% of the population perceives cilantro as soapy — a genetic variant in the OR6A2 olfactory receptor gene makes them detect aldehydes that others don't.
How to care for cilantro (coriander)
Succession-sow every 3 weeks — cilantro bolts within 60 days in heat. For coriander seed, let plants bolt and harvest seeds when stems turn brown. Slow-bolt varieties (Calypso, Slo-Bolt) buy you 2 extra weeks.
Garden uses & design ideas
Best garden use
Keep it close to paths, patios, or kitchen doors so harvesting feels easy and the fragrance is part of the garden experience.
Pair it with
Tomato, Pepper, Basil make easy companion choices because they share similar light, water, or visual texture needs.
Layout tip
Match it with full sun exposure, place it in a moderate-water bed where soil can stay evenly damp but not soggy, and check USDA zones 2-11 (cool-season annual) before planting. Use the garden planner to test spacing around its mature size: 12-24 in tall, 6-12 in wide.
Gardener note — Double-check local invasive, edible, and toxicity guidance with your county extension office before planting around pets, children, or natural areas.
Companion plants
Cilantro (Coriander) grows well alongside these — similar light, water, and texture needs.
Common pests & problems
Where it grows best
Native to Eastern Mediterranean and Southwest Asia; thrives in USDA hardiness zones 2-11 (cool-season annual).
Frequently asked about cilantro (coriander)
What USDA zones does Cilantro (Coriander) grow in?+
Cilantro (Coriander) is hardy in USDA zones 2-11 (cool-season annual). Outside these zones, it can usually be grown indoors or as a seasonal annual.
How much sun does Cilantro (Coriander) need?+
Cilantro (Coriander) prefers full sun. Place it where it gets that light most of the day for best growth and flowering.
How often should I water Cilantro (Coriander)?+
Cilantro (Coriander) has moderate water needs. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Succession-sow every 3 weeks — cilantro bolts within 60 days in heat. For coriander seed, let plants bolt and harvest seeds when stems turn brown. Slow-bolt varieties (Calypso, Slo-Bolt) buy you 2 extra weeks.
How big does Cilantro (Coriander) get?+
Cilantro (Coriander) reaches a mature size of 12-24 in tall, 6-12 in wide. Growth rate is fast, so plan spacing accordingly when planting.
What plants grow well with Cilantro (Coriander)?+
Cilantro (Coriander) pairs well with Tomato, Pepper, Basil, Beans, Spinach. These companions share similar care requirements and don't compete aggressively for resources.
What pests affect Cilantro (Coriander)?+
Common Cilantro (Coriander) problems include aphids; powdery mildew. Catching early signs in routine inspection prevents most damage.
When does Cilantro (Coriander) bloom?+
Cilantro (Coriander) blooms in summer (the bolt signals harvest end). Deadheading spent flowers (where applicable) often encourages a longer bloom window.
Design a garden with cilantro (coriander) in minutes
Drag plants into a 3D space, walk through it, or upload a photo and let AI redesign it. Test spacing around its mature size before you plant.
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