The Story
Plant Bio
Persicaria odorata, commonly known as Vietnamese coriander or rau ram, is a trailing herbaceous perennial grown for its aromatic leaves used in Southeast Asian cuisine.
The leaves have a unique spicy, cilantro-like flavor and fragrance. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and moist to wet soil, often grown as an annual in temperate climates.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
High
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial in tropics; annual elsewhere
Native To
Southeast Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to keep humidity high during rooting.
- Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilize with a balanced, organic fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
- Prune lightly after flowering to promote bushier growth.
- Divide mature clumps every 2-3 years in early spring for rejuvenation.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Provide full sun for optimal growth
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
- Avoid excessive fertilizing that can lead to leggy growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Vietnamese coriander Vietnamese mint questions
What zones can Vietnamese coriander Vietnamese mint grow in?
Vietnamese coriander Vietnamese mint is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Vietnamese coriander Vietnamese mint deer resistant?
Yes — Vietnamese coriander Vietnamese mint is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Vietnamese coriander Vietnamese mint bloom?
Vietnamese coriander Vietnamese mint typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Vietnamese coriander Vietnamese mint need full sun?
Vietnamese coriander Vietnamese mint does best in part shade.
More Polygonum to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Vietnamese coriander Vietnamese mint with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.