Culantro (Eryngium foetidum) is a distinctive herb with a potent aroma and flavor, significantly stronger than its common relative, cilantro (Coriandrum sativum). This tropical herb, also known as Mexican coriander or sawtooth coriander, features long, serrated leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. Its flavor blends cilantro, citrus, and anise notes, sometimes with peppery or bitter undertones. Culantro is a culinary staple in Caribbean, Latin American, and Southeast Asian cuisines, valued in dishes like sofrito, stews, soups, and marinades.
Planting Culantro
Establishing culantro can begin from seeds, transplants, or cuttings. Seeds require patience due to slow, erratic germination. To encourage sprouting, use fresh seeds, soak them, and sow shallowly in consistently moist medium.
Transplanting seedlings or cuttings is a more straightforward method. Plant outdoors after the last frost, when soil temperatures have warmed. Space young plants 6 to 12 inches apart for adequate growth and air circulation. Select a location with partial shade, protected from intense, direct sunlight.
Culantro Growing Conditions
Culantro thrives in conditions mimicking its native tropical habitat. It prefers partial shade, especially protection from harsh afternoon sun, which can cause premature bolting. Excessive direct light leads to early flowering and reduced leaf production.
Ideal soil is consistently moist but well-draining, preventing root-damaging waterlogging. Rich, loamy soil with organic matter provides nutrients and structure. Culantro prefers a soil pH that is slightly acidic to neutral.
Consistent moisture is crucial; the soil should never dry out completely. Avoid overwatering, as saturated conditions cause root rot. High humidity also contributes to plant health. It prefers warm temperatures (70-85°F / 21-29°C) and is sensitive to frost, which can damage or kill the plant.
Maintaining and Harvesting Culantro
Once established, culantro benefits from light fertilization, especially for container plants. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season for adequate nutrients. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive leafy growth, reducing flavor.
Culantro is resilient to most diseases, but root rot can occur if soil remains waterlogged. Common pests like aphids and slugs can be managed with organic methods such as neem oil sprays or hand-picking. Bolting (premature flowering) is common, often triggered by heat stress, inconsistent watering, or intense sunlight. To prevent bolting, ensure adequate shade and consistent moisture, and promptly remove any developing flower stalks to encourage continued leaf production.
Regular harvesting encourages more foliage. To harvest, select mature outer leaves, leaving inner, younger leaves to grow. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant’s leaves at each harvest to ensure vitality and productivity. Leaves are ready for harvest when 6 to 8 inches long.