Vietnamese Coriander

Persicaria odorata Polygonaceae

Growth habit

Herbaceous

Perennation

Cultivated as annual

Native distribution

Viet Nam; Indochina

Biocultural value

Known as rau ram in Vietnam, the strong cilantro flavored leaves are added fresh to salads and to cooked dishes just before serving.

Location

Robison Herb Garden

Source of plant

Well-Sweep Herb Farm

Description

The Vietnamese coriander is a perennial plant that grows best in tropical and subtropical zones in warm and damp conditions. It can grow up to 15 to 30 cm. In the winter or when the temperature is too high, it can wither. The top of its leaf is dark green, with chestnut-colored spots while the leaf's bottom is burgundy red. In Vietnam it can be cultivated or found in the wild.

USDA Hardiness Zone

10

Special characteristics

tender perennial, food