Coriander
Coriandrum sativum
Coriander is a fast-growing annual herb producing bright green, flat-lobed leaves with a distinctive citrusy flavour essential to Thai, Indian, and Mexican cooking. Both leaves (cilantro) and seeds are used in the kitchen. It bolts rapidly in hot weather, running to flower within weeks of sowing, so successional sowing is essential. White or pale pink flowers appear from June to August and attract hoverflies and other beneficial insects.
Full growing guide
How to Grow Coriander Without Bolting
How to grow coriander
Sow seed directly where it is to grow from April to September — coriander resents root disturbance and transplanting triggers bolting. Sow thinly in drills 1 cm deep, thin to 5 cm apart. For a continuous supply of fresh leaves, make a new sowing every three weeks. Choose a spot with light shade in summer, as intense heat causes rapid bolting. Keep the soil consistently moist — drought is the main trigger for running to seed. Use slow-bolt varieties such as Confetti or Leisure for the longest leaf harvest. In containers, use a deep pot (at least 20 cm) and keep well-watered. Begin harvesting outer leaves when plants reach 10 cm tall. If plants do bolt, let flowers mature and collect the coriander seeds — they are a valuable spice. Autumn sowings under glass can provide winter leaves.
Pruning
No pruning required. Harvest by cutting individual stems at the base. Remove flower stalks promptly if you want to prolong leaf production.
Propagation
- Seed (sow directly April-September, successional sowings every 3 weeks)
Common problems
- Bolting in hot or dry weather
- Aphids
- Powdery mildew
- Damping off in cold, wet conditions
Good companions
Related guides
How to Grow Coriander Without Bolting
Grow coriander without it bolting: slow-bolt varieties, sowing little and often, growing in pots, and picking both the leaves and seeds.
How to Grow Herbs in the UK
How to grow herbs in a UK garden or on a windowsill: the easiest herbs, sowing, pots, picking so they stay bushy, and keeping a supply for winter.
How to Create a Herb Garden: Plans and Layouts
Plan and set up a herb garden that suits your space: where to put it, four easy layouts, a raised bed planting plan, pots, and which herbs to group.