Cilantro is also known as Coriander, Chinese parsley, and Mexican parsley. Its scientific name is Coriandrum sativum.
It is a versatile plant that can be used for cooking (used in many cuisines around the world, including Mexican, Indian, and Thai cuisine), medicinal purposes, and for decorative purposes as an ornamental plant, indoors and out.
This makes it a popular choice for gardeners and home cooks alike.
Here are some companion plants that can be grown with cilantro, along with the benefits of growing them, and information on their recommended sowing times and location.
Nasturtium
Nasturtium plants are colorful, edible flowers that can add a pop of color to your garden while also repelling pests.
They attract aphids, so can help keep them away from your cilantro plants. They are also known to deter whiteflies and cucumber beetles.
Nasturtiums prefer full sun to partial shade conditions, and well-drained soil.
Sow the seeds directly in the garden in the spring after the last frost, spacing them 10-12 inches (25 to 30 cm) apart.
Dill (Anethum graveolens)
Pros: Attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies, which can help control pests.
The Dill plant is also believed to enhance the flavor of cilantro.
Cons: Can compete with cilantro for nutrients and water, so make sure to space them at least a foot (30 cm) apart.
Sowing time: Late spring to early summer
Sowing location: Full sun, well-draining soil
Spacing: space at least 1 foot (30 cm) apart
Marigold
Marigold is a flowering plant that attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, and it is also reported to repel pests such as aphids and whiteflies.
The ideal sowing time for marigold is in the spring or early summer; the plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
The spacing for marigold should be about 6-12 inches (15 to 30 cm) apart.
Basil
This herb is a great companion to cilantro because it repels aphids, mosquitoes, and other pests that often attack cilantro.
It is a popular plant to grow as it has a wonderful flavor and is a staple in many Italian Dishes.
Basil plants have a pleasant aroma that can help mask the scent of cilantro from pests.
The ideal sowing time for basil is in the spring or early summer.
They prefer to grow in full sun and well-drained soil. The spacing for basil should be about 12 inches apart.
Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium)
Pros: Attracts predatory insects including hoverflies and lacewings, which can help to naturally control pests.
Chervil's delicate leaves, make a nice addition to salads and soups.
Cons: Anthriscus plants can also compete with cilantro for nutrients and water. So space well.
Sowing time: Early spring or autumn.
Sowing location: Partial shade to full sun, use a well-draining soil.
Spacing: space at least 8 inches (20 cm) apart.
Borage
Borage is an herb that attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies to your garden.
It also improves soil fertility and can help repel pests such as tomato hornworms and cabbage worms.
Borage prefers to grow in full sun to partial shade, and prefers a well-draining soil.
Sow the seeds directly in the garden after the last frost, spacing them 12-18 inches (30 to 45 cm) apart.
Other commonly used Cilantro companion plants include Tomatoes, Spinach, Peas, Cucumber, Corn, Radish, Carrots, and Lettuce amongst many others.
Each of these companion plants offers benefits to cilantro in different ways, usually by repelling pests or attracting beneficial insects.
Keep in mind that planta have their own ideal growing conditions, so it's important to research their individual requirements before planting them alongside cilantro.
References used for Growing Cilantro Companion Plants
"The Complete Book of Herbs: A Practical Guide to Growing and Using Herbs" by Lesley Bremness
Gardening Know How guide on how to grow Cilantro: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/cilantro/tips-for-growing-cilantro.htm
The Old Farmer's Almanac – tips on how to harvest and preserve cilantro: https://www.almanac.com/plant/cilantro
You may also enjoy these herb growing guides: How to grow Oregano, mint plants, and Lemon Balm.
