Persicaria odorata ‘Vietnamese Coriander’ – How to Grow & Use This Aromatic Herb in the UK

Persicaria odorata ‘Vietnamese Coriander’ – How to Grow & Use This Aromatic Herb in the UK

Persicaria odorata, commonly known as Vietnamese coriander, is a beautifully aromatic edible plant prized in Southeast Asian cooking. With its spicy, citrus‑pepper flavour, it’s a fantastic alternative to true coriander — especially in warm, sheltered gardens, greenhouses, or containers in the UK.

Compact, fast‑growing, and easy to harvest, this herb is ideal for gardeners looking to grow something a little different with real kitchen value.

What is Persicaria odorata?

Persicaria odorata (also known as rau ram or laksa leaf) is a tender perennial herb traditionally used in Vietnamese, Thai, and Malaysian cuisine. Unlike standard coriander, it thrives in heat and humidity, developing a stronger, more complex flavour as temperatures rise.

The narrow green leaves often have a dark maroon marking and release a pungent aroma when crushed.

How to Grow Vietnamese Coriander in the UK

Best Position

Vietnamese coriander loves warmth. In the UK it performs best:

• In a greenhouse or polytunnel
• On a sunny patio
• Indoors on a bright windowsill

It dislikes cold winds and should be protected from frost.

Soil

• Moist but free‑draining soil
• Rich compost or multipurpose compost works well
• Excellent for pots and containers

Watering

Keep consistently moist, especially in summer. Avoid letting it dry out completely.

Temperature

Growth is strongest above 18°C. Plants may slow right down in cooler conditions but quickly recover with warmth.

Harvesting & Using Persicaria odorata

Leaves can be harvested regularly once the plant is established.

Best Uses

• Vietnamese salads and soups
• Laksa and noodle dishes
• Fresh herb garnish
• A coriander alternative that holds flavour when warm

Unlike regular coriander, the leaves don’t bolt quickly and remain usable over a long harvesting period.

Is Persicaria odorata Hardy?

No – this is a tender perennial in the UK.

• Grown as an annual outdoors
• Overwinter indoors or in a heated greenhouse
• Can be kept going year‑round with warmth and light

Many growers take cuttings in late summer to keep plants going for the following season.

Why Grow Vietnamese Coriander?

• Unique, bold flavour
• Easy to grow in containers
• Long harvesting season
• Perfect for polytunnels and greenhouses
• Great alternative to traditional coriander

If you enjoy growing herbs you can’t easily find fresh in shops, Persicaria odorata is a standout choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I grow Vietnamese coriander outside in the UK?
Yes, during warm summer months in a sheltered, sunny spot. Bring it indoors before temperatures drop.

Does Vietnamese coriander taste like coriander?
It has a similar base note but is spicier, more peppery, and holds its flavour better in hot weather.

Is Persicaria odorata spicy?
Mildly — it has a warming, peppery edge rather than heat.

Can it be grown indoors year‑round?
Yes, with good light and warmth it makes an excellent indoor herb.

Call to Action

Looking to add something different to your herb collection? Persicaria odorata ‘Vietnamese Coriander’ is perfect for adventurous cooks and container gardeners alike.