CULANTRO SEEDS

Eryngium foetidum

An interesting tropical species of Eryngium, a genus that hosts several ornamental species common to American landscapes. Widely employed as an ethnobotanical, and common to the cuisines of the Caribbean and Southeast Asia.

Flavor is similar to a good cilantro, but better and stronger, with an effect on the tongue similar to that of French tarragon. Leaves retain their flavor when cooked and dried, making it superior to cilantro for use in soups and curries.

Plants are small and fairly happy in a 6" terra cotta pot. These plants are true perennials, and flavor persists even as the plant is blooming. Trim dried flower stems, collect seed, and continue to harvest leaves as you need them. Very unlike cilantro in that respect, and far more appropriate as a potted herb.

Seeds take several weeks to germinate, and the seedlings are very small and delicate. These will take several more weeks to become large enough to transplant. Fortunately, once you have a healthy potted specimen, it can take a great deal of abuse and neglect and you needn't worry too much about making new plants. Plants that have gone to seed are easily rejuvenated.

Sow indoors at anytime: press several seeds into moist soil and barely dust with fine vermiculite. Mist generously with warm water. Cover pot with plastic to maintain moisture and temperature. Kept warm (around 80°F) in bright light, seeds will germinate in about 4 weeks. Germination is erratic, so be patient.

Once seedlings have a few sets of tiny true leaves, very carefully transplant into a 3" pot to grow on at warm room temperature in bright light. Do not begin to harvest until the plant has several sets of leaves, which may take several more weeks.

Very slow to start but long-lived and worth the wait. Highly recommended as a potted herb for winter use indoors. Small potted plants make a wonderful gift for fellow gardeners and foodies.

Packet contains at least 100 seeds.

Both photos are of first year plants. In the terra cotta pot you might spy a couple self-sown seedings. They are tiny indeed.