Mexican coriander, culantro, long coriander
eryngium foetidum
Also known as: ["Mexican coriander","culantro","long coriander","recao","shadow-bush","fitweed"]
Overview
A tropical herb with pungent, celery-like leaves used in culinary applications, particularly in Latin American and Asian cuisines.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Eryngium |
| Botanical Name: | Eryngium foetidum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm, sheltered area or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on removing only dead or overgrown parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in cooler months.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in tropical conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; use a thermometer to monitor conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in hormone (optional), plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone can be used but is not strictly necessary.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or junction; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to encourage new growth and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, remove dead leaves, shape plant gently, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and vigor.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback.
Solution: Protect from drafts and cold windows; maintain consistent warmth above 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and ensure adequate water.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEryngium foetidum is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is generally safe for accidental ingestion, though large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEryngium foetidum is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for accidental ingestion, though large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicEryngium foetidum, commonly known as culantro, is generally considered safe for culinary use in small amounts. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high concentration of essential oils and other bioactive compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eryngium foetidum the same as cilantro?
A: No, Eryngium foetidum (culantro) is botanically distinct from Coriandrum sativum (cilantro), though they share a similar pungent flavor.
Q: How do I grow Eryngium foetidum?
A: Sow seeds in warm, well-drained soil with partial shade; keep moist until established.
Q: Can I use Eryngium foetidum in cooking?
A: Yes, its leaves are widely used in dishes like sofrito, curries, and salsas for their intense flavor.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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