Vietnamese Coriander: From Garden to Kitchen (A Grower's Guide)
Vietnamese coriander is a remarkable herb that thrives in hot weather and grows straight through summer, unlike regular coriander, which bolts quickly in heat. We are specialists in growing this versatile herb, also known as Cambodian mint, Vietnamese mint, and Rau Ram.
We take immense pride in our Vietnamese coriander plants, which offer refreshing lemony notes followed by a hot, biting, peppery aftertaste that adds distinctive character to dishes. This perennial herb isn't commonly found in shops, making it an excellent addition to your herb collection.
Our Vietnamese coriander plants can be grown indoors year-round, allowing you to harvest fresh leaves approximately one month after planting. We've perfected the growing conditions for this herb in our Sussex nursery, where all our plants are 100% UK-grown and 100% pesticide and peat-free.
We offer expert guidance on growing Vietnamese coriander in the UK, from its preference for consistently moist soil to its versatility as an emergent plant with roots submerged in water. Whether you have a frost-free garden or plan to grow it indoors, our quality plants will take you from garden to kitchen with this remarkable herb.
Vietnamese Coriander - A Fascinating Herb from Our Collection
Despite its name, Vietnamese coriander belongs to an entirely different botanical family than regular coriander or mint. We are passionate about sharing the remarkable qualities of this herb that has become a favourite in our Sussex nursery.
Not Your Typical Coriander or Mint
Vietnamese coriander (Persicaria odorata) might share taste characteristics with other herbs, but botanically, it stands apart. This herb belongs to the Polygonaceae family, commonly known as "smartweeds" or "pinkweeds." This distinguishes it completely from true coriander (Coriandrum sativum) from the Apiaceae family, and true mints from the Lamiaceae family.
The similarities in taste and smell between Vietnamese coriander and these unrelated herbs represent what botanists call convergent evolution. While regular coriander bolts quickly in warm weather, Vietnamese coriander thrives in tropical and subtropical conditions - perfect for growing on our nursery during summer months.
Many Names, One Distinctive Plant
Vietnamese coriander goes by numerous names across different regions:
- Rau răm (Vietnamese)
- Laksa leaf (from Malay 'daun laksa')
- Vietnamese mint or Cambodian mint
- Hot mint
- Phak phai (Thai)
- Praew leaf
- Vietnamese cilantro
Botanically identified as Persicaria odorata, our plants feature distinctive long, slender leaves with smooth edges. The top of each leaf displays a dark green colour with characteristic chestnut-brown spots, while the underside presents a striking burgundy-red hue. The jointed stem forms new leaves at each joint, giving the plant its distinctive appearance.
A Complex and Delightful Flavour Profile
The taste of Vietnamese coriander is truly special. Initially, you'll notice a refreshing citrusy quality reminiscent of coriander but with its own distinctive character. This is followed by a peppery kick that builds gradually on the palate.
We often describe Vietnamese coriander as a harmonious blend of citrus and mint with a spicy aftertaste. The "peppery zing complemented by subtle citrus undertones" makes it ideal for brightening dishes with its refreshing yet warming qualities.
Most importantly, unlike regular coriander (which some people perceive as soapy due to a genetic variation), Vietnamese coriander doesn't generally provoke this polarising response. This makes it an excellent alternative for those who dislike conventional coriander but still want that fresh, aromatic quality in their cooking.
Growing Vietnamese Coriander - Expert Tips from Culinary Herb Co.
We've grown Vietnamese coriander at our Sussex nursery for years and understand exactly what this tropical herb needs to thrive in the UK climate. With proper attention to a few key factors, you'll enjoy this aromatic herb year-round, even during Britain's cooler months.
Climate and Temperature Requirements
Vietnamese coriander loves warmth, preferring temperatures between (21-32°C). This tropical perennial struggles below 8°C, requiring protection during colder months. Though not frost-hardy, we've found it shows surprising tolerance to brief cold spells. For year-round cultivation, we recommend keeping plants indoors or in a greenhouse during winter.
Perfect Growing Conditions
Our experience growing hundreds of herb varieties has taught us that Vietnamese coriander thrives with:
- Soil: Rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. It happily tolerates various ph levels from acidic to alkaline.
- Light: Position in partial to full sun, receiving 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Morning sun with afternoon shade works brilliantly in hot weather.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist without overwatering. Water container plants daily, especially during summer. We recommend mulching with straw or wood chips to maintain moisture and suppress weeds.
Container Growing vs. Ground Planting
We find that container growing offers several advantages over planting directly in the ground. Pots allow you to move plants to optimal positions as seasons change and protect them from frost. Choose containers at least 8-12 inches wide with good drainage holes. For ground planting, be cautious - Vietnamese coriander can spread rapidly in ideal conditions, particularly in moist environments.
Growing in the UK Climate
For successful cultivation in Britain, we suggest:
- Protecting plants from frost with horticultural fleece or bring containers inside during winter months.
- Applying autumn mulch to protect roots from cold.
- Positioning indoor plants on a sunny windowsill, rotating periodically for even growth.
- Fertilising with a balanced liquid feed regularly during warm weather and monthly in cooler periods.
- Maintaining humidity through regular misting, particularly important for indoor plants during winter heating seasons.
At Culinary Herb Co. we take immense pride in growing Vietnamese coriander that's 100% free of pesticides and perfectly adapted to UK growing conditions.
Propagating and Maintaining Vietnamese Coriander
Vietnamese coriander is remarkably simple to multiply, making it one of the easiest herbs in our collection to propagate. We are passionate about sharing our expertise on increasing your plant stock and maintaining healthy growth year-round.
Propagation from Cuttings
Our specialists at Culinary Herb Co. recommend this straightforward method for propagating Vietnamese coriander:
- Select a healthy stem about 10 cm long
- Remove leaves from the lower nodes, leaving 2-3 leaves at the top
- Place the cutting in water with the bare nodes submerged
- Wait for roots to develop, typically within 1 week
Unlike basil, Vietnamese coriander only grows roots from nodes, not directly from the stem. Once roots reach 2-3 inches in length, we recommend transplanting your cutting into well-draining potting mix.
Managing Growth
Vietnamese coriander grows vigorously on our Sussex nursery, and we've developed these techniques to maintain tidy, productive plants:
- Pinch out growing tips to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess
- Trim stems regularly, cutting just above a leaf node to stimulate new branching
- Watch for aphids, which particularly love this plant - spray with water to dislodge them
- Apply neem oil periodically to protect tender leaves from insect damage
Feeding Recommendations
We feed our Vietnamese coriander plants regularly to ensure optimal growth:
- Apply balanced liquid fertiliser regularly during warm weather
- Reduce to monthly feeding during cooler periods
- Increase feeding frequency for container plants as nutrients leach more quickly
- Avoid over-fertilisation, which leads to excessive but less flavourful foliage
Winter Protection
As temperatures drop, we protect our Vietnamese coriander with these tried-and-tested methods:
- Move container plants indoors or to a greenhouse before the first frost
- Apply a thick mulch in late autumn to protect the roots of garden plants
- During mild winters, plants may continue growing with protection
- In severe cold, expect die-back - the plant will regrow in spring if roots remain viable
We suggest keeping a backup cutting in water indoors throughout winter as insurance against outdoor losses. This precaution ensures you'll have plants ready to thrive once temperatures rise again.
All our Vietnamese coriander plants are 100% UK-grown and free of pesticides, giving you the confidence that you're starting with the healthiest possible specimens.
Buy Vietnamese Coriander Plants from Culinary Herb Co.
Using Vietnamese Coriander in the Kitchen
Fresh Vietnamese coriander brings a distinctive peppery and citrusy dimension to countless dishes. We're passionate about helping our customers use this versatile herb to its full potential in their cooking.
Vietnamese coriander is best used fresh rather than dried, as it loses much of its unique flavour when dehydrated. Our freshly harvested leaves offer the most tender texture and pronounced taste. For optimal results:
- Add to hot dishes at the last minute to preserve their aromatic qualities
- Slice larger leaves into thin strips for salads and fresh spring rolls
- Use in soups, stir-fries, and curries for a refreshing dimension
- Pair with ingredients like tomato, coconut, ginger, chilli, chicken, duck, and whitefish
Our Vietnamese coriander works especially well in dishes with bold flavours, complementing the tangy zests of lemongrass and the sweetness of basil. It serves as an excellent alternative for those who find regular coriander soapy tasting.
Popular Vietnamese Coriander Recipes
In Vietnamese cuisine, this herb features prominently in several signature dishes we love to make:
Gỏi gà (Vietnamese chicken salad) showcases the herb's ability to complement protein with its peppery profile. Many consider rau răm essential to authentic gà bóp - there's simply no proper substitute for its distinctive taste.
Another traditional application is Vietnamese fish soup (canh cá), where the herb neutralises fishy aromas while adding a refreshing element. It also appears in phở and fresh spring rolls, providing aromatic depth.
Preserving Your Harvest
Unlike many herbs, Vietnamese coriander doesn't dry well. Freezing, however, offers an excellent preservation method:
- Wash leaves thoroughly and dry with paper towels
- Chop into desired sizes
- Place in freezer bags or containers
- Freeze immediately
Alternatively, freeze chopped leaves in ice cube trays with a little water or olive oil, creating convenient portions for future cooking.
Benefits of your cooking
Beyond its distinctive flavour, our Vietnamese coriander offers practical advantages in the kitchen. It neutralises overwhelming fishy aromas in seafood dishes, creating a cleaner taste experience. Its bold profile means a little goes a long way - economical for home cooks.
The herb's versatility extends beyond Asian cuisine - it works surprisingly well in herb dips, pestos, and as an unexpected addition to Western salads and soups. By growing our Vietnamese coriander in your garden, you'll have authentic flavours that might otherwise be difficult to source in British shops.
All our Vietnamese coriander plants are 100% UK-grown and 100% pesticide and peat-free, ensuring the safest, most flavourful addition to your culinary creations.
Vietnamese coriander stands out as a remarkable herb that deserves a place in your garden and kitchen. We're passionate about growing this versatile herb at our Sussex nursery, where we take immense pride in producing plants that offer a unique alternative to traditional coriander with their distinctive citrusy and peppery profile.
Our Vietnamese coriander plants show impressive resilience during warm weather, making them particularly valuable when other herbs struggle in hot summer months. We've perfected the growing conditions to ensure you'll receive robust, healthy plants that, with proper care, will provide a continuous harvest - something otherwise difficult to source in British shops.
We supply our Vietnamese coriander plants, which are 100% UK-grown and 100% pesticide-free, to shops, restaurants, hotels, cocktail bars and home gardeners throughout Britain. Our customers appreciate how this herb transforms everyday dishes into authentic Southeast Asian culinary experiences.
Though Vietnamese coriander requires protection during British winters, the reward of fresh, aromatic leaves for your cooking endeavours makes every effort worthwhile. Whether you cultivate them indoors on a sunny windowsill or outdoors during warmer months, we guarantee our quality plants will thrive under your care.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vietnamese Coriander.
How do I properly care for Vietnamese coriander?
Vietnamese coriander thrives in consistently moist soil and warm temperatures between 21-32°C. Place it in partial to full sun, water regularly, and protect from frost. Re-pot annually with fresh potting soil to ensure adequate nutrients.
Can Vietnamese coriander be grown indoors in the UK?
Yes, Vietnamese coriander can be successfully grown indoors in the UK. Place it on a sunny windowsill, rotate periodically for even growth, and maintain humidity through regular misting. Bring outdoor plants inside during winter to protect them from frost.
How do I propagate Vietnamese coriander?
Propagate Vietnamese coriander by taking 10 cm stem cuttings, removing the lower leaves, and placing them in water. Once roots develop (usually within 1 week), transplant into well-draining potting mix.
What are some popular uses for Vietnamese coriander in cooking?
Vietnamese coriander is commonly used in dishes like Vietnamese chicken salad (Gỏi gà), fish soup (canh cá), and fresh spring rolls. It pairs well with ingredients such as tomato, coconut, ginger, chilli, and various meats and fish.
How can I preserve Vietnamese coriander for later use?
While Vietnamese coriander doesn't dry well, it can be preserved by freezing. Wash and chop the leaves, then freeze them in bags or ice cube trays with a little water or olive oil. This method helps retain the herb's distinctive flavour for future use.
Does Vietnamese coriander grow well in damp conditions?
Yes - Vietnamese coriander actually thrives in damp conditions, making it one of the few herb plants that enjoys consistently moist soil. In fact, it grows happily near ponds or as a semi-aquatic plant with roots submerged in water. Just ensure the soil stays moist without becoming waterlogged to avoid root rot.
Is Vietnamese coriander a perennial plant?
Vietnamese coriander is a perennial plant in warm, frost-free climates, meaning it can live and produce leaves for several years. However, in the UK’s colder climate, it requires winter protection or indoor growing to survive year-round. With care, it will continue providing fresh coriander leaves season after season.
How does Vietnamese coriander compare to other popular herb plants?
Vietnamese coriander stands out among popular herb plants for its unique combination of citrusy freshness and peppery heat. Unlike regular coriander, it doesn’t bolt in warm weather, and unlike mint, it offers a sharper flavour. We find it an invaluable addition for cooks looking to expand their herb gardens with something more unusual and versatile.
Can I grow Vietnamese coriander in fertile soil?
Absolutely! Vietnamese coriander thrives in fertile soil that’s rich in organic matter. We recommend using well-drained soil enriched with compost to encourage strong, healthy growth. Fertile soil ensures a steady supply of those beautifully aromatic coriander leaves, ready for your kitchen.
What’s the best way to use Vietnamese coriander in Asian cooking?
Vietnamese coriander is a staple in many Asian cooking traditions, especially Southeast Asian cuisines. We love using its bright, peppery flavour in Vietnamese chicken salad (Gỏi gà), laksa, fresh spring rolls, and fish soups. Add the fresh leaves at the end of cooking to preserve their aromatic qualities - it’s a fantastic way to bring authentic flavour to your Asian-inspired dishes.