Forms low rosette of lobed compound leaves, then stalks of white or pale rosy lavender flowers that bolt 1 to 3 feet tall. Soon goes to seed and dies. Newer slow-bolting varieties yield longer harvest of larger leaves. Name coriander comes from Greek word koris, meaning bug. Grown for leaf and seed.
Seeds can have a stinkbug odor when green but develop nutty flavor and aroma when dried and aged.
Coriander seeds ripen quickly and will scatter to ground. Cut seed heads into a paper sack and dry in a cool, dark place. Scatter seed in spring and fall. Leaves lose flavor and freshness if dried. Thin seedlings to 6 inches apart.