Vietnamese coriander Persicaria odorata

Water

Vietnamese coriander, being a moisture-loving plant, should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Ideally, it should be watered once the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, which may be once or twice a week depending on the climate and soil drainage. In terms of amount, a good practice could be to water with about 16-32 ounces every time for a standard pot size, adjusting based on plant size and environmental conditions. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage is in place. During hotter, drier periods, more frequent watering might be necessary to maintain soil moisture.

Light

Vietnamese coriander prefers bright, indirect sunlight and should be placed in a location that receives such light for most of the day. Ideally, it should be kept in a spot that simulates the dappled sunlight of its natural environment, such as near a window with sheer curtains or a little farther back from a sunny window. Direct midday sunlight should be avoided to prevent leaf scorch.

Temperature

Vietnamese coriander thrives in warm conditions and does best within a temperature range of 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. While it can survive minimum temperatures down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, it's important to protect it from frost and cold drafts. The ideal temperature conditions mimic its native tropical habitat, so maintaining consistent warmth is key for healthy growth.

Pruning

Pruning Vietnamese coriander is important for encouraging bushier growth and preventing the plant from getting leggy. Snip off the tops of the plant and trim back any overgrown stems, ideally during the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Regularly removing flowers can help prolong leaf production, and pruning can be done as needed throughout the season, whenever the plant appears to need shaping or thinning out.

Soil

Vietnamese Coriander thrives best in a moist, fertile soil mix with good drainage. A combination of garden soil, compost, and perlite or sand can create an ideal environment. It prefers a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.5, leaning towards slightly acidic to neutral range.

Repotting

Vietnamese Coriander should be repotted every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. It's best to repot in spring or early summer to minimize stress on the plant.

Humidity & Misting

Vietnamese Coriander grows best in high humidity conditions, ideally between 65%-75%. If the air is too dry, the leaves may dry out or the plant may not thrive as vigorously.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist.

• Outdoor

  Place in partial shade and keep soil consistently moist.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Persicaria odorata, commonly known as Vietnamese coriander, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in warm, moist soil. The seedling emerges and develops into a young plant with characteristic pointed leaves that release a fragrant scent when crushed. As the plant matures, it forms a bushy clump of stems and leaves, growing both horizontally and vertically, often reaching heights of 15-30 cm. Throughout its life, Vietnamese coriander produces small pink or white flowers on the tip of its stems, although it is primarily grown for its flavorful leaves. The plant is perennial in warm climates but can be treated as an annual in cooler regions, where it completes its entire life cycle within one growing season. In ideal conditions, the Vietnamese coriander can propagate itself through cuttings or by dropping its seeds, continuing its cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-summer

• Vietnamese coriander, or Persicaria odorata, is a tropical plant that is commonly propagated through stem cuttings. This method is widely regarded as the easiest and most effective way to propagate the plant and provides the quickest results. The best time to take cuttings for propagation is during the warmer months when the plant is actively growing. To propagate through stem cuttings, a healthy, non-flowering stem of about 5 to 6 inches (approximately 12.7 to 15.2 centimeters) is cut just below a node. The lower leaves are stripped off, and the cutting can be placed directly into the soil or water to encourage root development. It's essential to keep the soil moist and ensure the cuttings have warm temperatures and high humidity to root successfully. Roots usually appear within a couple of weeks, after which the new Vietnamese coriander plant can be transplanted to its desired location.