coriander

Coriander is a hardy annual growing to 45-60 cm/18-24 in. The fresh leaves are chopped and added to curries and other spiced dishes. Coriander originated on the eastern shores of the Mediterranean and has been cultivated for centuries.

Pungent fresh herb belonging to the parsley family, native to Europe and Asia; also a spice made from its dried ripe seeds. The spice is used commercially as a flavouring in meat products, bakery goods, tobacco, gin, liqueurs, chilli, and curry powder. Both are commonly used in cooking in the Middle East, India, Mexico, and China. (Coriandrum sativum, family Umbelliferae.)