How To Grow Cilantro From Leaves

You can grow cilantro from leaves, and it’s actually one of the easiest and most rewarding kitchen projects you can try at home.
 
While most people grow cilantro from seeds, growing cilantro from leaves—specifically from healthy stem cuttings with leaves attached—is a fast and fun way to get a fresh supply without waiting for seeds to germinate.
 
If you’ve ever wondered how to grow cilantro from leaves, the short answer is: yes, you can, as long as you take cuttings that include a bit of stem and place them in water or soil until they root.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to grow cilantro from leaves, step by step, plus tips to keep your plant thriving so you can enjoy fresh cilantro for months.
 

How to Grow Cilantro From Leaves

Growing cilantro from leaves works because cilantro—also known as coriander—can develop new roots from nodes along its stems when given the right conditions.
 
When you take a cutting that includes leaves and a section of stem, you’re giving the plant a chance to clone itself.
 
This method is sometimes called propagation, and it’s a great way to grow cilantro from leaves without starting from seed.
 
Here’s why it works so well:
 

1. Cilantro Roots Easily From Stem Cuttings

Cilantro is a fast-growing herb that responds well to cuttings, especially when the stem is healthy and the leaves are fresh.
 
The key is to choose a stem that has at least a few leaves and a node—the little bump where leaves attach to the stem.
 
That node is where new roots will emerge when you place the cutting in water or moist soil.
 
So when you grow cilantro from leaves, you’re really growing it from the stem that holds those leaves.
 

2. You Don’t Need Seeds to Grow Cilantro From Leaves

Seeds are the traditional way to grow cilantro, but they’re not the only way.
 
If you have a bunch of fresh cilantro in your fridge, you can use it to grow cilantro from leaves instead of tossing the stems.
 
Just pick a few healthy sprigs with good leaves and sturdy stems, and you’re ready to start.
 
This makes growing cilantro from leaves a budget-friendly and sustainable option.
 

3. Cilantro Grows Quickly From Cuttings

One of the best things about growing cilantro from leaves is how fast you’ll see results.
 
In water, roots can start forming within 7 to 10 days.
 
In soil, it might take a little longer, but you’ll often see new growth within two weeks.
 
That speed makes growing cilantro from leaves a satisfying project for beginners and kids.
 

4. You Can Grow Cilantro From Leaves Indoors or Outdoors

Whether you have a sunny windowsill or a garden bed, you can grow cilantro from leaves just about anywhere.
 
Indoors, a south-facing window works great.
 
Outdoors, partial shade is ideal in hot climates because cilantro tends to bolt in extreme heat.
 
So no matter your space, growing cilantro from leaves is doable.
 

Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Cilantro From Leaves

Now that you know why it works, let’s get into the how.
 
Follow these steps to grow cilantro from leaves successfully:
 

1. Pick Healthy Leaves and Stems

Start with fresh, green cilantro that hasn’t wilted.
 
Choose stems that are at least 4 to 6 inches long and have several leaves attached.
 
Avoid stems that are yellowing, mushy, or flowered, as those won’t root as well.
 

2. Cut Just Below a Node

Using clean scissors or pruning shears, cut the stem just below a node.
 
A node is the slightly swollen spot on the stem where leaves grow.
 
This is where roots will form, so it’s important to make your cut right below it.
 

3. Remove Lower Leaves

Strip off the leaves from the bottom inch or two of the stem.
 
You want the lower part of the stem bare so it can focus on root development.
 
Keep the upper leaves intact because they’ll help the plant photosynthesize.
 

4. Place Cuttings in Water or Soil

You can root cilantro cuttings in either water or soil.
 
For water rooting, place the stems in a glass or jar with the nodes submerged.
 
Change the water every couple of days to keep it fresh.
 
For soil rooting, dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional) and plant it in moist potting mix.
 

5. Provide Light and Warmth

Place your cuttings in a spot with bright, indirect light.
 
Keep them warm—around 65 to 75°F is ideal.
 
Avoid direct harsh sun, which can scorch the leaves before roots form.
 

6. Wait for Roots to Develop

In water, you’ll see little white roots appear in about a week or two.
 
In soil, tug gently on the stem after 10 days—if you feel resistance, roots are forming.
 
Once roots are a couple of inches long, you can transplant water-rooted cuttings into soil.
 

Tips for Growing Cilantro From Leaves Successfully

To make sure your cilantro thrives after you grow cilantro from leaves, keep these tips in mind:
 

1. Use Fresh Cuttings

The fresher the cuttings, the better your chances of successful rooting.
 
If you’re using store-bought cilantro, start the process the same day you bring it home.
 

2. Change Water Regularly

Stagnant water can breed bacteria and rot your cuttings.
 
Refresh the water every 2 to 3 days to keep it oxygenated.
 

3. Avoid Overwatering Soil

If you root in soil, keep it moist but not soggy.
 
Too much water can cause the stem to rot before roots form.
 

4. Pinch Off Flowers

If your cilantro starts to flower, pinch off the buds.
 
This keeps the plant focused on leaf production instead of going to seed.
 

5. Harvest Gently

Once your plant is established, snip off outer leaves as needed.
 
Never take more than a third of the plant at once so it can keep growing.
 

So, Can You Grow Cilantro From Leaves?

You can grow cilantro from leaves by taking stem cuttings with leaves attached and rooting them in water or soil.
 
It’s a simple, cost-effective way to turn a bunch of store-bought cilantro into a fresh, homegrown supply.
 
Just remember to pick healthy stems, cut below a node, and give your cuttings the light and warmth they need to root.
 
With a little patience, you’ll be growing cilantro from leaves like a pro and enjoying fresh cilantro in your favorite dishes all season long.