Coriandrum sativum is an annual herb.
The lower leaves of coriander are lobed and look a little like parsley. The upper leaves are finely dissected into linear segments and almost fernlike. The flowers are borne in small umbels, white or very pale pink, asymmetrical.
Fresh leaves (Cilantro) provide an exotic tang in Asian dishes. The dried seeds (Ketumbar) are used in curry powders, chutneys, confectionery, cakes and sauces.