The Ultimate Guide to Growing Vietnamese Coriander Companion Plant

Have you ever heard of Vietnamese coriander? It's a herb that is commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine, and it has a unique flavor that sets it apart from other herbs like basil or mint. But did you know that Vietnamese coriander can also be grown as a companion plant? In this guide, we'll show you how to grow Vietnamese coriander alongside other plants in your garden, and how it can benefit both you and your other crops.

What is Vietnamese Coriander?

Vietnamese coriander, also known as Persicaria odorata or Rau Ram, is a herb that is native to Southeast Asia. It has long, pointed leaves that are dark green with a purple tinge, and it grows in a clump-like manner. Vietnamese coriander has a spicy, peppery flavor that is often described as a cross between cilantro and mint. It is used in many traditional dishes, including soups, salads, and curries.

Benefits of Growing Vietnamese Coriander as a Companion Plant

Growing Vietnamese coriander as a companion plant in your garden can provide several benefits. First, it attracts beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which can help pollinate your other plants. Second, its strong scent can deter pests like aphids and spider mites, which can be harmful to your crops. Third, it can help improve soil quality by adding nutrients and organic matter to the soil. Finally, it can enhance the flavor of your other crops when used together in cooking.

How to Grow Vietnamese Coriander as a Companion Plant

Growing Vietnamese coriander as a companion plant is relatively easy. Here are the steps you can follow:

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

Vietnamese coriander prefers partial shade and moist soil, so choose a spot in your garden that gets some shade during the day. It also thrives in hot and humid conditions, so make sure the location is warm and protected from strong winds.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

Prepare the soil by adding compost or other organic matter to improve its quality. Vietnamese coriander prefers slightly acidic soil, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging.

Step 3: Plant the Seeds or Seedlings

You can Vietnamese coriander from seeds or seedlings. If ing from seeds, sow them directly into the soil at a depth of around ¼ inch. If ing from seedlings, transplant them into the prepared soil, spacing them around 6 inches apart. Water the plants regularly, but avoid overwatering.

Step 4: Care for the Plants

Vietnamese coriander requires regular watering and fertilization to thrive. Water the plants whenever the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal diseases. Fertilize the plants every four to six weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Step 5: Harvest the Leaves

Harvest the leaves of Vietnamese coriander as needed, taking care not to remove too many leaves at once. Use sharp scissors to cut the leaves close to the stem, leaving at least two sets of leaves on the plant. The leaves are best used fresh, but they can also be dried or frozen for later use.

Companion Plants for Vietnamese Coriander

Vietnamese coriander can be grown alongside a wide range of other plants in your garden. Here are some of the best companion plants for Vietnamese coriander:

Basil

Basil and Vietnamese coriander make a great pairing in the garden, as they both prefer similar growing conditions and have complementary flavors. Basil also attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, which can help pollinate your other crops.

Mint

Mint is another herb that grows well alongside Vietnamese coriander. It has a cooling flavor that pairs well with the spicy heat of Vietnamese coriander, and it also attracts beneficial insects to your garden.

Lettuce

Lettuce is a great companion plant for Vietnamese coriander, as it grows well in partial shade and does not compete for nutrients with the herb. The crisp texture of lettuce also provides a nice contrast to the soft leaves of Vietnamese coriander.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes and Vietnamese coriander complement each other well in cooking, and they can also benefit from each other's presence in the garden. Vietnamese coriander can help repel pests that are attracted to tomatoes, while tomatoes provide shade and support for the herb.

FAQs

1. How long does it take for Vietnamese coriander to grow?

Vietnamese coriander usually takes around 60 days to reach maturity, but you can harvesting the leaves as soon as they are large enough to use.

2. Can I grow Vietnamese coriander indoors?

Yes, you can grow Vietnamese coriander indoors as long as you provide it with enough sunlight or artificial light. Make sure to keep the soil moist and fertilize the plant regularly.

3. How do I store Vietnamese coriander?

Vietnamese coriander is best used fresh, but you can also store it in the refrigerator for a few days. To store it, rinse the leaves and pat them dry, then wrap them in a paper towel and place them in a plastic bag. Store the bag in the refrigerator and use the leaves within a few days.

4. Can I use Vietnamese coriander as a substitute for cilantro?

Yes, Vietnamese coriander can be used as a substitute for cilantro in many dishes. However, its flavor is more intense and peppery than cilantro, so use it sparingly if you are not familiar with the taste.

5. How do I propagate Vietnamese coriander?

Vietnamese coriander can be propagated by taking stem cuttings from an established plant. Cut a stem that is around 6 inches long, remove the lower leaves, and place the cutting in a glass of water or a pot filled with moist soil. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid location until roots develop, then transplant it into a larger pot or into your garden.


Growing Vietnamese coriander as a companion plant in your garden is a great way to enhance the flavor of your other crops and improve soil quality. It's easy to grow, and it attracts beneficial insects while deterring pests. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can add this flavorful herb to your garden and enjoy its benefits all season long.