Papalo

Papalo sometimes called “summer cilantro” is a very aromatic, natural pest repelling herb with resistance to most diseases, making it a very low-maintenance and easy plant to grow. Its taste is like a mix of cilantro, arugula, and rue, but much more potent, spicy, and complex. You only need a few leaves to flavor a full meal. This is a great slow-to-bolt, heat-loving alternative to cilantro making it a perfect variety to grow in Hawaii year-round. This Mexican native herb is ideal for tacos, salsas, and sauces. It will produce large, blue-green leaves that are milder when harvested young.

Days to Maturity: 70-85 days

Plant size: 36-60” tall

Plant spacing: 12-18” apart

Sun, soil, and water requirement: Papalo likes full sun but can handle partial shade and enjoys well-draining soils. Rainwater is usually enough for our plant – but if you need to hand water, allow the plant to dry out slightly between waterings.

Pruning: Pinching the tips will encourage branching and create bushier plants.

Harvesting: Pick leaves as needed. Younger leaves are milder in flavor and will become spicier as they mature.

Culinary: Use papalo leaves fresh and at the end of cooking. Cooking the leaves will remove their flavor. Use just ¼ to 1/3 as you would cilantro and add more if desired. A little will go a long way so it’s better to add more later than add too much at the beginning. Also, the leaves will lose their flavor if dried.

Nutrients: Papalo, like herbs oregano, and basil, has been found to have anti-bacterial properties making it a healthy addition to your seasoning mixes.

Companion planting: This is a great companion to most plants in the garden. The leaves have glands that produce a potent aroma that repels insects from eating their leaves. The flower also attracts beneficial insects like bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to your zone.

Container friendly

Please Note:

** Pots and plants may vary from the picture depending on the size and maturity ordered. All plants have been carefully hardened off and are ready to be transplanted into their permanent garden home or pot once delivered.

** Growing details provided are general. Conditions will change depending on your location, elevation, climate, rainfall, and accessible sunlight.

** Nutritional information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.