Cumin is an aromatic herb with feathery foliage and small pinkish flowers. The seeds are used as a spice, both whole and powdered, and is second only to black pepper as the most popular spice across all continents. Its earthy, nutty, slightly bitter flavor is used extensively in traditional North African, Indian, and Mexican cuisines. Thrives in hot, dry conditions. The leaves and flowers are also edible, and can be used to add unique flavor to salads and pickling brines.

• Earthy, nutty, flavor
• Heat and drought tolerant
• Grows 8″-12″ tall
• Good for containers

As a companion plant, it attracts pollinators and beneficial insects.

As a medicinal herb, Cumin seed has been used internally to treat bloating, colic, cough, fever, flatulence, headache, indigestion, insomnia, pain, restlessness, stomach upset, and weight issues, and externally to treat skin problems and toothache.

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Cuminum cyminum
• Life cycle: Herbaceous annual
• Hardiness zones: 5-10
• Planting season: Spring
• Days to maturity: 120-150 days; can begin harvesting when 6″ tall
• Depth to plant seeds: 1/4″ deep
• Days to germinate (sprout): 7-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 68F-86F
• Spacing between plants: 4″-6″ apart
• Spacing between rows: 18″-24″ apart
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 9 plants per sq. ft.
• Soil types: Sandy, loamy, rich, dry, moist, well-drained
• Soil pH: 6.5-8.0
• Sun needs: Full sun
• Water needs: Low – do not overwater
• Cold stratify: No
• Frost tolerant: No
• Heat tolerant: Yes
• Drought tolerant: Yes
• Deer resistant: Yes
• Culinary use: Yes
• Medicinal use: Yes

Good Companion Plants: Beet, Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Cilantro/Coriander, Collards, Cucumber, Kale, Marigold, Mustard, Pepper, Potato