Coriander seeds
Coriander, Coriandrum sativum, is an annual herb belonging to the family Apiaceae. Coriander has its origins in Asia and Southern Europe but is cultivated today all over the world.
Did you know that coriander is one of our oldest herbs? It is a well-known crop that has been cultivated for over 3000 years, both as a spice and a medicinal plant. Fresh coriander has a fresh, citrusy and sharp aromatic taste.
Is coriander an herb or a spice? A common question that is often asked, and technically speaking, the word coriander can be used to describe the whole plant, including stems, leaves and seeds, but when people refer to coriander in everyday speech, most often they are talking about the spice that is made and produced from the plant's seeds. The plant's beautiful leaves are often called cilantro, which comes from the Spanish word for coriander.
Coriander is an easy-to-grow spice plant that also grows very quickly. It can be started indoors, but can also be sown directly in the growing area. Coriander thrives in a sunny and warm location that is preferably a little sheltered. Coriander prefers airy and humus-rich soil with plenty of nutrients to flourish. This spice plant should be sown several times during the season for a larger harvest. Keep in mind that coriander also self-seeds easily! The seeds can also withstand cold soil and can therefore be sown in winter and early spring for an early harvest.
Coriander thrives with: spinach, beans, peas, chili and eggplant. It can also be planted with carrots and cabbage to keep pests away.
Coriander does not thrive with: fennel.
Coriander grows very well in hydroponic cultivation year-round with the help of a little plant lighting!
The best thing about coriander is that the whole plant can be used in cooking, which means no waste. Freshly harvested coriander lasts about a week in the refrigerator, but it also freezes well for year-round access.