Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) is a plant in the Apiaceae family. Its fruit (seeds) are typically called "coriander" while its leaves are called cilantro. Coriander is a source of vitamin C,...

Understanding the Context

Coriander is a feathery annual plant of the parsley family (Apiaceae), parts of which are used as both an herb and a spice. Native to the Mediterranean and Middle East regions, the plant is widely cultivated in many places worldwide for its culinary uses. Coriander, or Coriandrum sativum, is a herb and spice all rolled into one. In the U.S., coriander typically means the seeds, while cilantro refers to the leaves.

Key Insights

In other countries, like the UK, both the seeds and leaves are just called coriander. Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) is a flowering plant belonging to the Apiaceae family, which also includes carrots, celery, and parsley. It’s an annual herb that grows up to 50 cm tall with feathery leaves, small white or pale pink flowers, and round seeds. Coriander is a fragrant, antioxidant-rich herb that has many culinary uses and health benefits. It can help lower your blood sugars, fight infections, and promote heart, brain, skin, and...

Final Thoughts

Women's health dietitian and nutritionist Valerie Agyeman, RDN, breaks down everything you need to know about coriander, cilantro and the difference between the two. Coriander refers to the dried fruits of the coriander plant, whose leaves are also called cilantro. That’s right: coriander seeds and cilantro are both edible parts of the same plant! Its other common name, coriander, refers to the seeds, which are used as a common cooking spice, especially in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines. Cilantro is best planted in the early spring but also can be started in the fall.