Coriandrum sativum Umbelliferae

CULTIVATION This half-hardy annual has aromatic, toothed, bright green lower leaves and feathery upper leaves with clusters of small, pinkish-white flowers from early summer. Reaching a height of 30-45 cm (12-18in), it prefers light, fertile soil and full sun. Sow seeds in early spring or under glass during autumn and thin the seedlings to 15 cm (6in) apart. Water well, especially during dry weather, to promote production of the lower leaves. Harvest the leaves and flowers whenever they are available, trimming off the top growth to promote new, flavoursome leaves, or, if you primarily want the seeds, let the plant flower and cut off the seed heads when they are just turning brown in late summer. Grow it as a garden, border, container and conservatory herb.