Basil
Ocimum basilicum
Cilantro/Coriander
Coriandrum sativum
Basil vs Cilantro for Container Growing: Best Herb for Your Balcony
Comparing basil and cilantro for container herb gardens. Learn which is easier to grow, produces more, and works better in small spaces.
Quick Comparison
| Criteria | 🌿Basil | 🌱Cilantro/Coriander | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | easy | moderate | Basil |
| Days to Harvest | 60 days | 45 days | Cilantro/Coriander |
| Container Size | 6 inch pot | 6 inch pot | Tie |
| Sunlight | full sun | partial sun | - |
| Water Needs | moderate | moderate | - |
| Yield | Higher | Lower | Basil |
| Beginner-Friendly | ⭐ Yes | Moderate | Basil |
Key Differences
Growing Season
Warm season. Thrives May-September. Dies in frost.
Cool season. Best in spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). Bolts in summer heat.
Speed to First Harvest
60-70 days from seed, but can start harvesting leaves at 4 weeks.
3-4 weeks from seed. One of the fastest herbs.
Harvest Duration
Continuous harvest all summer (3-4 months) with regular pinching.
Short harvest window (4-6 weeks) before bolting. Succession plant every 2-3 weeks.
Temperature Preference
Loves heat. 70-90°F ideal. Thrives in hot summers.
Prefers cool. 50-70°F ideal. Bolts when temperatures exceed 75°F.
Sunlight Needs
Full sun required (6-8 hours). More sun = more leaves.
Partial shade tolerant (4-6 hours). Actually prefers some afternoon shade in summer.
Flavor Profile
Sweet, aromatic, slightly peppery. Intensifies when cooked.
Citrusy, bright, slightly soapy taste (genetic). Best fresh, not cooked.
Best for Basil
Choose Basil if:
- You love Italian and Mediterranean cooking
- You have full sun (6-8 hours)
- You want summer-long harvests
- You prefer warm-weather herbs
- You make pesto or caprese salad
Best for Cilantro/Coriander
Choose Cilantro/Coriander if:
- You love Mexican and Asian cuisine
- You have cooler weather or partial shade
- You want quick harvests (3-4 weeks)
- You prefer cool-season growing
- You make salsa, guacamole, or pho
Can They Grow Together?
No, keep them separate
Not ideal to grow together due to opposite temperature preferences. Basil loves heat while cilantro bolts in heat. Cilantro thrives in cool weather when basil struggles. Grow them in separate containers for sequential harvests.
The Bottom Line
Basil
Choose basil for summer-long harvests in hot weather, Italian cooking, and continuous production from one planting.
Cilantro/Coriander
Choose cilantro for quick harvests in cool weather, Mexican/Asian cooking, and when you can succession plant every few weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is easier to grow: Basil or Cilantro/Coriander?
Basil is generally easier to grow in containers. It requires less maintenance and is more forgiving of mistakes.
Which grows faster: Basil or Cilantro/Coriander?
Cilantro/Coriander reaches harvest maturity faster, typically in 45 days compared to 60 days for Basil.
Can I grow Basil and Cilantro/Coriander together?
No, it's not recommended. Not ideal to grow together due to opposite temperature preferences. Basil loves heat while cilantro bolts in heat. Cilantro thrives in cool weather when basil struggles. Grow them in separate containers for sequential harvests.
Which needs less space: Basil or Cilantro/Coriander?
Both Basil and Cilantro/Coriander have similar space requirements and work well in small containers.
Which produces more: Basil or Cilantro/Coriander?
Basil typically produces more harvest per plant over the growing season, making it better for maximum yield in limited space.
Which is better for beginners: Basil or Cilantro/Coriander?
Basil is more beginner-friendly due to its forgiving nature and easier care requirements. It's a great first plant for new container gardeners.
What are the main differences between Basil and Cilantro/Coriander?
The key differences include: growing season, speed to first harvest, harvest duration. See the detailed comparison above for complete differences.
Should I choose Basil or Cilantro/Coriander for my balcony?
Choose basil for summer-long harvests in hot weather, Italian cooking, and continuous production from one planting. Choose cilantro for quick harvests in cool weather, Mexican/Asian cooking, and when you can succession plant every few weeks. Consider your space, sunlight, and what you want to grow when making your decision.
Related Plant Guides
Complete Basil Growing Guide
Learn everything about growing Basil in containers.
Complete Cilantro/Coriander Growing Guide
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