Bolivian coriander
Porophyllum ruderale
Bolivian coriander
About this plant
Porophyllum ruderale, commonly called Bolivian coriander, is a fast-growing herb with aromatic, feathery leaves used in cooking for its fresh, cilantro-like flavor. It is popular in Latin American cuisine and can be grown as an annual or perennial in warm climates. The plant has small white to purple flowers and a bushy form, making it both useful and ornamental.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Porophyllum
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Higher classification
- Asterales
- Plant type
- Herb
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Mexico, Central America, South America
- Distribution
- Native to Central and South America; cultivated in warm regions worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18-30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or potting mix
Watering. Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season to support healthy leaf growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce flavor intensity.
Porophyllum ruderale is a hardy herb that grows well in sunny spots with well-draining soil. It tolerates dry conditions and needs only moderate watering. Overwatering can cause root problems, so let the soil dry out between waterings. It requires little maintenance and can be pruned to keep a bushy shape.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Aromatic feathery foliage with small white to purple flowers; bushy form.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Low spread
Non-toxic to humans and pets; safe to grow around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Porophyllum ruderale may cause mild skin irritation in some sensitive individuals due to its sap. It is not known to produce airborne pollen that triggers allergies. To reduce exposure, avoid direct contact with the plant's sap and wash hands after handling.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot. Poor drainage or too much shade may cause weak growth. Occasionally, pests like aphids may appear but are usually manageable.
Uses
Used as a culinary herb for flavoring dishes; also grown ornamentally for its attractive foliage and flowers.
Notes
Prune regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess. Repot or transplant in spring if grown in containers. Sensitive to frost, so protect or bring indoors in cold climates.