Persicaria odorata (Persicaria odorata)

Also known as: Vietnamese coriander, hot mint

Persicaria odorata, popularly known as Vietnamese coriander, rau răm, laksa leaf, phak phai, praew leaf, hot mint, Cambodian mint, and Vietnamese mint, is a herb whose leaves hold an essential role in Southeast Asian and Northeast Indian gastronomy. Intriguingly, although bearing 'coriander' and 'mint' in some of its common names, it shares no familial ties with mints or coriander and belongs to neither the mint family Lamiaceae nor the coriander's family Apiaceae. Yet, it does bear certain resemblance to them in terms of its overall aesthetics and aroma. It's main family, however, is Polygonaceae, often termed as 'smartweeds' or 'pinkweeds'. The likeness in flavor profiles and fragrances among Persicaria, mint, and coriander can likely be ascribed to the process of convergent evolution.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Persicaria odorata

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Height

0.3m - 0.8m

Spread

N/A

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

N/A

Flower Color

Pink

Images of Persicaria odorata

Quickly Identify Persicaria odorata

This plant can be identified by its long, pointy leaves which have a unique, spicy flavor. It also features small pink flowers.

Scientific Classification of Persicaria odorata

Phylum

Tracheophyta

Class

Magnoliopsida

Order

Caryophyllales

Family

Polygonaceae

Genus

Persicaria

Species

P. odorata

Planting and Growing of Persicaria odorata

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-86℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

5.5-7

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Persicaria odorata?

Persicaria odorata enjoys a consistently moist environment but doesn’t want to be flooded. You should aim to provide around 250 ml of water per session, ensuring that the top inch of the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. This allows the roots to have constant access to moisture without sitting in a swampy base, which could lead to rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Persicaria odorata? ›

What should I do if my Persicaria odorata is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Persicaria odorata? ›

How to save an overwatered Persicaria odorata? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Persicaria odorata?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Partial sun is ideal for Persicaria odorata, ensuring 4 to 6 hours of gentle sunlight. This light range encourages healthy oil production and keeps the plant bushy and green, which enhances its culinary value.

What is the ideal lighting condition for Persicaria odorata? ›

How can I ensure Persicaria odorata receives optimal light? ›

What are the benefits of providing the right lighting to Persicaria odorata? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Persicaria odorata?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 86℉

Persicaria odorata thrives best when grown in temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F. These conditions simulate its native tropical habitat, providing optimal energy for photosynthesis, metabolism, and cellular growth. Such a temperature range ensures the plant can absorb nutrients effectively while maintaining robust growth and a healthy appearance.

What Soil is Best for Persicaria odorata?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy soil

Soil PH: 5.5 ~ 7

Persicaria odorata thrives in well-drained soil as it prevents root rot by ensuring excess water doesn't pool around the roots. This soil type supports optimal growth by providing sufficient aeration and moisture balance. This plant benefits from a nutrient-rich soil mix, which supplies essential nutrients for robust foliage and resistance against diseases. Incorporating organic matter, like compost, enriches the soil and supports healthy growth. Soils with good moisture retention are ideal for this plant, as they ensure consistent moisture levels. Maintaining this balance promotes vigorous growth and prevents dehydration, which can lead to wilting.

How to Fertilize Persicaria odorata?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Persicaria odorata, a general-purpose liquid fertilizer should be diluted at half strength. Apply approximately half a cup of the diluted liquid per plant during its active growing season, ensuring the soil is moist before application.

How to Prune Persicaria odorata?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Wear gloves to protect your hands from any sap or plant debris. Avoid heavy pruning in late autumn to prevent exposing fresh cuts to potential cold damage. Ensure you're cutting above a leaf node, as trimming too low can stunt growth. Always use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts and reduce plant stress. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Persicaria odorata plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Summer

Select healthy stems and cut 4-6 inch sections just below a node. Remove leaves from the lower half to prevent rot and ensure the energy is directed towards root development.

Dip the cut end in rooting hormone, then place each cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Ensure at least a few nodes are buried to anchor the cutting effectively.

For division propagation, carefully dig up an existing plant during the spring or summer. Divide the root ball into sections with at least a few stems and roots in each. Replant the divisions immediately.

How to Repot Persicaria odorata plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Repot your Persicaria odorata when you notice roots protruding from drainage holes or the plant's growth seems stunted. This usually occurs every 1-2 years, depending on growth rate. Spring and early summer are ideal times as the plant is in its active growth phase, allowing it to recover quickly.

Opt for a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. The pot should have adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A pot that is too large could retain too much moisture, which is detrimental to the plant.

Choose a well-draining potting mix ideally formulated for herbs or general indoor plants. This soil type ensures that excess water drains swiftly, providing an environment that mimics the plant's natural habitat and preventing root diseases caused by water retention.