Eryngium foetidum

Fitweed is an annual tropical herb, indigenous to the Amazon rainforest and other tropical areas of the Americas. It grows best under moist, shaded conditions near cultivated areas. Culantro or long coriander as it is called, is often mistaken for its relative, coriander (cilantro). Fitweed is a herb with a pungent odor; the leaves have toothed margins and they grow in a basal rosette pattern. Culantro is rich in iron, carotene, riboflavin and calcium. This plant is widely used as food flavoring and seasoning herb for dishes and chutney in the Caribbean; it is popular in Asia for food use. Culantro has also applications in herbal medicine: as a tea for diarrhea, flu, fevers, vomiting, diabetes and constipation. Propagation: seeds. Grown in shady and moist spots, well drained soil. Can be planted in pots for indoor use in the cooler zones.

Similar plants:

• Eryngium sp. (Sea-holly)