Eryngium foetidum
TAXONOMY
FamilyApiaceae
GenusEryngium
Zone10
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Eryngium foetidum, commonly known as culantro, Mexican coriander, or long coriander, is a tropical perennial herb in the family Apiaceae. Native to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America, it is widely used in culinary applications for its strong, cilantro-like flavor. The plant has a rosette of long, serrated leaves and produces small, greenish-white flowers. It does not have a dormancy period and can grow year-round in suitable conditions.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Culantro
Fitweed
Shadow-Beni
Eryngium antihystericum
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity70%
pH6
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Culantro thrives in warm, humid environments with plenty of sunlight. It prefers moderate temperatures and should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. The plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors, making it versatile for various growing conditions. Ensure it receives bright, direct light for optimal growth.Soil
Eryngium foetidum prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. A soil mix with good organic content will support its nutrient needs. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 to support healthy growth. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flavor.Repotting
Repot culantro when it outgrows its current container, typically every 1-2 years. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Culantro can be propagated from seeds or by division. Sow seeds in a well-draining seed-starting mix and keep them moist until germination, which usually takes 2-3 weeks. For division, carefully separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each section has roots, and replant them in suitable soil.Pruning
Pruning is not typically required for culantro. However, you can trim the leaves as needed for culinary use. Regularly removing older leaves can encourage new growth and maintain the plant's overall health.Toxicity
Eryngium foetidum is not toxic to pets or humans. It is safe to use in culinary applications and does not pose any known health risks.Additional
Culantro is often confused with cilantro due to its similar flavor, but it is a distinct plant with a stronger taste. It is a staple in many Caribbean and Latin American dishes. Regular harvesting of the leaves can promote bushier growth and prevent the plant from bolting.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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