How Tall Does a Cilantro Plant Grow

Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a popular herb used in many different cuisines. It is commonly used in Mexican, Indian, and Southeast Asian dishes, and it is known for its strong, distinctive flavor. Cilantro is also easy to grow at home, making it a great addition to any herb garden. However, before you start planting cilantro, it’s important to know how tall these plants can grow.

Cilantro Plant Description

Cilantro plants are annual herbs that belong to the parsley family. They typically grow to be between 12 and 24 inches tall and have thin, delicate leaves that are light green in color. Cilantro plants have small white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer months. The seeds of the cilantro plant are known as coriander seeds and are often used in cooking as well.

Growing Cilantro

Cilantro is a cool-season herb that prefers temperatures between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, but it requires well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. If you’re growing cilantro from seed, it’s best to plant them in early spring or late summer.

When planting cilantro, make sure to space the seeds about 6 inches apart and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water the seeds regularly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Cilantro plants typically take between one and two weeks to germinate.

Once cilantro plants have established themselves, they require very little maintenance. However, if you notice the leaves starting to turn yellow or brown, it may be a sign that the plant is not getting enough water.

How Tall Do Cilantro Plants Grow?

As mentioned earlier, cilantro plants typically grow to be between 12 and 24 inches tall. However, the exact height of the plant will depend on a variety of factors, including the growing conditions and the specific variety of cilantro you are planting.

Some varieties of cilantro, such as slow-bolting cilantro, tend to grow shorter and bushier than other varieties. If you’re looking for a specific height for your cilantro plants, it’s best to research the specific variety you plan to grow.

Harvesting Cilantro

Cilantro leaves can be harvested once the plant has reached a height of about 6 inches. To harvest cilantro, simply snip off the outer leaves with a pair of scissors, leaving the center leaves to continue growing.

It’s important not to wait too long to harvest cilantro, as the leaves will begin to lose their flavor once the plant starts to flower. If you want to harvest cilantro seeds, wait until the flowers have dried out and turned brown before collecting them.

FAQ

How often should I water cilantro?

Cilantro plants require regular watering, especially during hot or dry weather. Water your cilantro plants deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions.

Can I grow cilantro indoors?

Yes, cilantro can be grown indoors in a sunny windowsill or under artificial lighting.

What is the best time of year to plant cilantro?

Cilantro is a cool-season herb and is best planted in early spring or late summer.

How do I prevent my cilantro from bolting?

Cilantro plants tend to bolt, or flower and go to seed, when temperatures get too warm. To prevent bolting, try planting slow-bolting varieties or planting cilantro in a partially shaded area.

How do I store fresh cilantro?

Fresh cilantro can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To keep it fresh longer, wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag. You can also freeze cilantro by chopping it up and placing it in an ice cube tray with water.