Cilantro Calypso is a versatile, fast-growing herb known for its aromatic leaves and seeds (also called coriander). With its rich, zesty flavor, cilantro is a favorite in many cuisines, particularly in Mexican, Indian, and Southeast Asian dishes. The Calypso variety of cilantro offers improved bolt-resistance and a more consistent, compact growth habit, making it a great choice for gardeners in warmer climates or those who want to extend their harvest season. Ideal for fresh use in salads, salsas, and garnishes, Cilantro Calypso is an essential herb for home gardeners looking to grow flavorful, high-yielding herbs with ease.

Key Features:

• Improved Bolt-Resistance: Cilantro Calypso is specially bred to resist bolting (going to seed) in hot weather, allowing for a longer growing season and more consistent harvests.
• Compact Growth Habit: The plants have a bushy, well-structured form, making them ideal for container gardening and small spaces.
• Dual Purpose: Both the fresh leaves (cilantro) and seeds (coriander) can be harvested and used, providing two culinary options from a single plant.
• Flavor Profile: Offers the signature fresh, zesty taste of cilantro, which can be used in a variety of dishes like salsas, curries, and chutneys.

Growing Information:

• Light Requirements: Cilantro Calypso grows best in full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates. Ideally, aim for at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth.
• Soil Preferences: Cilantro prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.2–6.8). Adding organic compost to the soil can improve fertility and drainage.
• Planting Tips: Sow seeds directly into the soil 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep. Plant them in rows spaced 6-8 inches apart or in clusters, and thin the plants to maintain good air circulation as they grow. For continuous harvests, sow new seeds every 2-3 weeks.
• Watering: Cilantro requires consistent moisture, especially in dry conditions, but should not sit in waterlogged soil. Water deeply and regularly to keep the soil moist but well-drained. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
• Harvesting: Harvest leaves when they are young and tender, ideally before the plant begins to flower and bolt. If you prefer coriander seeds, allow the plant to flower and produce seeds, which can be collected when they are brown and dry.

Benefits:

• Culinary Uses: Cilantro leaves are widely used for garnishing and flavoring salsas, guacamole, salads, curries, soups, and more. Coriander seeds are also commonly used in spice mixes, pickling, and baking.
• Rich in Nutrients: Cilantro is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, potassium, and manganese. It also contains antioxidants and has been associated with digestive benefits.
• Low-Maintenance Growth: Cilantro Calypso’s compact and bolt-resistant nature makes it a low-maintenance herb that requires little attention, yet yields a high return in terms of flavor and harvest.
• Pollinator-Friendly: The flowers of cilantro attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to the health of your garden ecosystem.

Growing Zones: Cilantro Calypso is suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 3-11. It thrives in cooler weather and can be grown in both spring and fall. In warmer climates, it may need partial shade to avoid bolting too quickly.

How to Use in the Garden:

• Culinary Herb: Grow Cilantro Calypso in your herb garden, vegetable garden, or in containers on a sunny windowsill. Use the fresh leaves in a wide range of dishes such as salsas, tacos, curries, and salads.
• Container Gardening: Cilantro’s compact growth habit makes it ideal for growing in pots or window boxes, perfect for those with limited garden space.
• Companion Planting: Cilantro can help deter pests like aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites from other plants. Plant it alongside vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and beans for natural pest control.
• Attract Pollinators: Include Cilantro Calypso in a pollinator-friendly garden. Its small white flowers will attract bees and other beneficial insects that help with pollination.

Conclusion: Cilantro Calypso (Coriandrum sativum) is a must-have herb for gardeners who enjoy cooking with fresh, flavorful herbs. Its improved bolt-resistance and compact growth habit make it an excellent choice for extended harvests in warmer climates or small spaces. The dual-purpose nature of cilantro (fresh leaves and coriander seeds) ensures that this plant provides maximum culinary value throughout the season. Whether you’re a beginner gardener or an experienced herb enthusiast, Cilantro Calypso is easy to grow and adds a burst of flavor to your garden and kitchen.