Culantro herbs... simply drop the "I" and add a "U" and you have an entirely new herb to cook with! Culantro herbs display serrated leaves that are both long and wide like the leaves of Broad Leaved Sage, but grow low to the ground like that of a Dandelion. The scent of Culantro is similar to Cilantro, but these hard to find herbs offer a much stronger flavoring in culinary dishes. Culantro is native to the Caribbean and is primarily sought after to flavor things such as rice & beans, stews, or even soups and some Asian dishes as well. As an added bonus, Culantro is also used as a medicinal herb as well and can combat flu symptoms, diabetes, constipation and even fevers too. The herbs leaves are rich in calcium and also contains carotene, iron and riboflavin.  Culantro herbs will grow to a mature height of about 10 to 12 inches tall. The leaves are best harvested before any flowers appear, since this will provide you with the best flavoring. Each plant spreads to a width of about 16 inches wide and can be grown in pots and containers, raised beds, or directly in the garden.  Culantro is categorized as an annual herb, which means that it has a single life cycle. When grown from seed, the plant will grow quickly, producing its serrated leaves and later will produce Its flowers. If the plants are allowed to "bolt," or go to seed, you will be able to harvest fresh seeds to regrow the season after. Quick Facts Type: Herb Season: Annual Heirloom: Yes Color: Green Height: 10" - 12" Tall Width: 16" Spread Harvest: 70 Days Uses: Culinary Environment: Partial Shade Sowing The Seed Culantro seeds can be started directly outdoors in the garden, but it is always recommended that you start smaller seeds such as these in starter pots, or Cowpots. Simply sow the seed directly to the surface of the soil, allowing the seeds to absorb direct sunlight. This is crucial to the germination process.  Growing Conditions These herbs may grow in the Caribbean, but they will need an area of partial shade to thrive. They can be sprayed lightly each day with a spray bottle or mist setting until sprouts appear. Use a soil that is rich and organic, but also well drained. Adding a small amount of compost can help to improve drainage. Germination & Growth Culantro seeds typically germinate within 10 to 14 days, but can take as long as 21 days to sprout. The plants will grow to a mature height of about 10 to 12 inches tall, and can spread a good 16 inches wide. The leaves can be harvested before the plant flowers for best flavoring.