Ever run out of Chadon Beni just when you needed it most? For me, it’s usually while prepping green seasoning or Sunday lunch. That sharp, citrusy kick is just irreplaceable. So I decided to grow my own — right in a pot. No more muddy garden shoes or last-minute market runs. Just bold Caribbean flavour, on demand.
Whether you call it Chadon Beni, Culantro, Bandhania, or just the good stuff, here’s how you can grow this powerhouse herb right at home.
🌱 Quick Facts at a Glance
| Common Name | Chadon Beni |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Eryngium foetidum |
| Also Known As | Culantro, Bhandhania, Mexican Coriander |
| Flavour | Earthy, citrusy, stronger than cilantro |
| Sunlight | Partial shade (morning sun preferred) |
| Watering | Keep soil moist but not soggy |
| Container | At least 6–8 inches deep (15–20 cm) |
🌤️ Why Grow Chadon Beni?
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Essential for Caribbean cooking — from green seasoning to pepper sauce
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Stronger and longer-lasting than cilantro (and doesn’t bolt as quickly)
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Grows well in pots, shady spots, balconies, and patios
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Low-maintenance once established, especially in tropical climates
🪴 How to Grow Chadon Beni in a Pot
1. Choose the Right Pot
Pick one that’s at least 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) deep. Chadon Beni grows a long taproot, so depth matters.
2. Use Well-Draining Soil
Mix compost with potting soil and a bit of coarse sand or cocopeat for better drainage.
3. Find the Right Spot
This herb prefers indirect sunlight or dappled shade. Too much sun can cause leaf scorch, especially in hot climates like Trinidad and Tobago.
4. Water Regularly
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially in dry weather — but never waterlogged.
5. Planting Tips
You can start with seeds or seedlings. Space them about 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) apart if planting more than one.
6. Common Issues
Watch out for slugs, snails, and whiteflies. Neem spray or crushed eggshells help!
✂️ Harvesting and Using Chadon Beni
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Snip outer leaves with scissors — don’t uproot the plant.
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Harvest frequently to encourage fresh, bushy growth.
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Want to save seeds? Let one plant flower and dry on the stem.
Want bushy growth? Pinch out the newly emerged flowering stalk. This will stimulate new side shoots(plants)
🍽️ How I Use It
In my house, Chadon Beni finds its way into almost everything — soups, stews, curry dishes, and of course, a big batch of green seasoning. I even chop and freeze a few leaves in oil or water (in ice trays) for those “oops I forgot to pick some” moments.
💚 Caribbean Flavour, Right Outside Your Door
Growing your own chadon beni is a simple, satisfying way to bring real Caribbean flavour into your kitchen — even if you only have a balcony or a sunny window. Plus, it’s one less herb you’ll ever need to buy again.
💬 Over to You.....
Have you grown Chadon Beni before?
Got a favourite way to use it — or a green seasoning hack you swear by?
Drop a comment, share your tips, or tell me which other herbs you'd love to see featured next!
Let’s keep the flavour — and the garden — growing 🌱
Happy garden dance, anyone?
Happy Gardening!
The Grey-Haired Gardener🌸
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