What spice is made from the seeds of the plant whose leaves are called cilantro?

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The spice made from the seeds of the plant whose leaves are called cilantro is coriander.

Both coriander and cilantro come from the same annual herb, Coriandrum sativum, a member of the parsley family. In American English, “cilantro” usually means the fresh leaves and delicate stems, while “coriander” means the dried seeds used as a spice.

The two parts have noticeably different flavors. Cilantro is fresh, green, and citrusy, although some people perceive it as soapy because of genetic differences in smell-receptor sensitivity. Coriander seeds have warmer, nuttier, and lightly citrus-like notes and are often toasted or ground.

The terminology varies internationally. In British English and many other English-speaking regions, “coriander” can refer to both the leaves and seeds. Coriander is common in curry powders, garam masala, pickling blends, sausages, and gin botanicals.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Aug. 2026

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