Description
A small perennial that forms a rosette of oblong, finely toothed leaves and a short inflorescence with small, green flowers. The leaves are highly aromatic and have a flavor that is nearly identical to that of cilantro (Coriandrum sativum). Unlike cilantro, the flavor lasts well even if the plant is cooked or dried and Eryngium foetidum is widely used in the Caribbean and South America as well as in Asia.
Germination Guide
🌍 Mexico, Caribbean, Central and South America
Difficult
Eryngium foetidum, commonly called culantro, is a tropical biennial herb indigenous to the American tropics and West Indies, now cultivated worldwide. Seeds are challenging to germinate due to photo-dormancy and slow sprouting times, requiring consistent warmth (24-29°C), high humidity, and bright light to break dormancy. Success depends on maintaining precise environmental conditions throughout the long germination period.
Germination
Germination time
Expect germination in
10 – 28 days
Temperature
Min 24°C
Ideal 26°C
Max 29°C
Substrate moisture
💧💧 High
Seed Pre-treatment
-
💧
Soaking — 24 hours
Optional soaking in room temperature water for 12 to 24 hours can enhance germination rates and improve uniformity of sprouting
-
📋
Additional notes
Seeds exhibit photo-dormancy and require light to germinate; gentle handling recommended due to seed coat characteristics
Substrate & Container
Recommended substrate
High-quality sterile seed starting mix; coco coir and perlite mix (1:1) or peat-based seed starting mix with good drainage and pH 6.0-7.5
Recommended container
Trays or pots with transparent dome or covered propagator; bottom heat mat recommended
Growing Tips
Seeds require light to germinate and must be sown directly on soil surface without soil covering (use only thin vermiculite dusting if needed). Scatter seeds thinly, press gently onto moist substrate, but do not bury. Germination is slow and irregular; expect sprouts in 2-4 weeks but some seeds may take 6-10 weeks - do not discard trays early. Use bottom heat mat to maintain soil temperature consistently at 80-85°F (27-29°C). Maintain high humidity with transparent dome and daily air circulation to prevent fungal damping-off. Mist daily (1-2 times) with spray bottle to keep surface consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once seedlings reach 2-3cm with first true leaves, gradually remove humidity dome over several days to acclimate. Keep substrate evenly moist and avoid direct afternoon sun. Do not transplant until seedlings are sturdy with several true leaves.
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