How to Grow Vietnamese Coriander
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Vietnamese Coriander
Persicaria odorata
herbVietnamese coriander is a tender perennial herb with slender, lance-shaped leaves that have a distinctive peppery-cilantro flavor with a slight citrus note. It is native to Southeast Asia and is widely used in Vietnamese, Thai, and other Asian cuisines. The plant thrives in warm, humid conditions and is often grown as an annual in cooler climates.
When should you plant Vietnamese Coriander in your zone?
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Example Vietnamese Coriander timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Vietnamese Coriander
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Vietnamese Coriander
Around May 17≈ 30 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Vietnamese Coriander dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10-11; can be grown as an annual in zones 6-9 or indoors elsewhere
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Get my Vietnamese Coriander timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings with first true leaves emerging; very delicate and tender
Keep soil warm (70-75°F) and consistently moist. Provide bright, indirect light. Protect from direct sun and wind
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops multiple stems with elongated, narrow green leaves; leafy growth phase
Maintain warm temperatures (65-75°F), consistent moisture, and partial shade. Pinch back stem tips to encourage bushier growth
Established Plant
Ongoing throughout growing seasonMature, full plant with dense foliage; ready for regular harvesting
Continue regular harvesting to promote branching and leaf production. Feed with balanced or nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 2-3 weeks
Flowering
Variable; occurs in late season or when plant boltsSmall white, pink, or reddish flowers appear on delicate spikes if plant is not regularly harvested
Pinch off flower buds to maintain leaf quality and encourage continued leaf production. Flowering can reduce leaf flavor
Decline (Cold Season)
Occurs with temperature dropPlant weakens and dies back in temperatures below 50°F; foliage becomes sparse or yellows
Bring indoors before first frost. In warm zones, mulch heavily or move to shelter. Consider overwintering indoors
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity and misting; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly; ensure good air circulation
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural predators like ladybugs
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Remove with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab; spray with insecticidal soap; isolate affected plants
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and
Hand-pick in early morning; use slug traps; apply diatomaceous earth around base; avoid overwatering
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Improve air circulation; reduce humidity slightly; spray with sulfur or neem oil; remove infected leaves
Uses
Asian Cuisine Ingredient
CulinaryVietnamese coriander is essential in Vietnamese, Thai, Cambodian, and Laotian cooking. Fresh leaves are used in pho, rice papers, spring rolls, salads, and as a garnish for curries and soups. The peppery-cilantro flavor adds distinctive depth to these dishes. [source]
Flavor Enhancement
CulinaryAdds a unique peppery, citrusy note to stir-fries, noodle dishes, and fresh rolls. Works well in Asian-inspired salads and as a substitute or complement to cilantro in recipes where a peppery bite is desired. [source]
Traditional Digestive Aid
MedicinalUsed in Southeast Asian traditional medicine to support digestion and reduce bloating. The herb has mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties valued in folk medicine practices. [source]
Fresh Herb Storage
HouseholdFresh leaves can be dried, frozen in ice cube trays with water or oil, or stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks. Dried Vietnamese coriander retains its distinctive flavor for several months when stored in an airtight container away from light. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeIf allowed to flower, Vietnamese coriander produces delicate flowers that attract small bees and other pollinators. Growing it in a kitchen garden provides nectar for beneficial insects while harvesting leaves. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting leaves when plant is 6-8 inches tall by pinching off top 2-3 inches of stems. Harvest regularly (every 1-2 weeks) to encourage bushier growth and prevent flowering. Young leaves have the best flavor. Harvest in the morning after dew dries for maximum flavor. Can be harvested year-round in warm climates or indoors
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Vietnamese coriander is not related to common cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) despite its similar common name; it belongs to the Persicaria genus and has a distinctly different flavor profile with peppery notes
- 🌱 The plant is called 'rau ram' in Vietnamese, 'phak pai' in Thai, and has over a dozen regional names across Southeast Asia, reflecting its importance in regional cuisines
- 🌱 Vietnamese coriander is prone to bolting in very hot weather and dry conditions, so it prefers the cooler parts of the growing season and benefits from afternoon shade in hot climates
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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