Cilantro is a popular herb grown for its flavorful leaves. When starting this plant from seed, new gardeners often feel uncertain whether the delicate green shoots emerging from the soil are the desired herb or merely a weed. The initial appearance of the seedling looks nothing like the mature foliage used in the kitchen. Understanding the visual progression of the plant from a tiny sprout helps a gardener confidently identify and nurture their future harvest.
Identifying the First Leaves
The first pair of structures to emerge above the soil are the seed leaves, or cotyledons, which are temporary organs. These initial leaves look significantly different from the adult plant, often leading to them being mistaken for weeds. Cilantro cotyledons are typically small, paired, and possess an oblong or slightly paddle-shaped appearance with smooth, unbroken edges. They are a pale, uniform green color and appear directly opposite each other on a slender stem.
These cotyledons serve a temporary purpose by performing early photosynthesis, creating energy to sustain the seedling during its first few days of life. They act as the plant’s initial energy source until the permanent leaves are developed enough to take over food production. If these seed leaves later yellow or shrivel, it indicates that their work is finished, and the plant has moved into its next stage of growth.
The Transition to True Cilantro Foliage
The definitive sign that a sprout is cilantro arrives with the emergence of the true leaves. These permanent leaves develop from the growing point located directly between the initial pair of cotyledons. This second set of leaves is the first to display the characteristic shape of the mature herb, confirming its identity.
The true cilantro leaves are deeply lobed and serrated, taking on the delicate, fan-like, or feathery appearance that distinguishes the herb. They emerge with a complex structure, showing a darker green color and a textured surface. Even when small, they carry the unmistakable, pungent aroma of cilantro if gently rubbed. This aromatic confirmation is the most reliable method for distinguishing the young herb from similar-looking seedlings like parsley. The developing plant will continue to produce these recognizable, divided leaves, forming a compact rosette before sending up stalks for flowering.
Sprouting Timeline and Health Indicators
Cilantro seeds typically begin to sprout within 7 to 14 days after planting, though this timeline varies based on environmental factors. Soil temperature significantly influences germination speed; cooler conditions extend the emergence time, while warmer temperatures accelerate it. The optimal temperature range for growth and to prevent premature flowering is generally between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
A healthy cilantro sprout will have a stocky, firm stem and a vibrant green color in both its cotyledons and true leaves. Insufficient light causes “legginess,” where the stem becomes thin, pale, and stretched out as the seedling reaches for a light source. Yellowing of the foliage, especially in the lowest leaves, often indicates a problem with the water supply, most frequently resulting from overwatering or poorly draining soil.