Lakeshore Garden Centres Plant Finder

Description:

A short lived perennial commonly used in Mexican cuisine; an aromatic selection with upright grass-like leaves topped with interesting blue flowers; unique flavor resembling cilantro with overtones of lemon and anise; mainly used to flavor meat dishes

Edible Qualities

Pipicha is an annual herb that is typically grown for its edible qualities. The fragrant ferny pinnately compound green leaves can be harvested at any time in the season. The leaves have a savory taste.

The leaves are most often used in the following ways:

• Fresh Eating
• Cooking
• Seasoning
• Sauces

Planting & Growing

Pipicha will grow to be about 4 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 18 inches. When grown in masses or used as a bedding plant, individual plants should be spaced approximately 12 inches apart. Its foliage tends to remain dense right to the ground, not requiring facer plants in front. Although it's not a true annual, this fast-growing plant can be expected to behave as an annual in our climate if left outdoors over the winter, usually needing replacement the following year. As such, gardeners should take into consideration that it will perform differently than it would in its native habitat.

This plant is typically grown in a designated herb garden. It does best in full sun to partial shade. It does best in average to evenly moist conditions, but will not tolerate standing water. This plant does not require much in the way of fertilizing once established. It is not particular as to soil pH, but grows best in rich soils. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. This species is not originally from North America.

Pipicha is a good choice for the edible garden, but it is also well-suited for use in outdoor pots and containers. With its upright habit of growth, it is best suited for use as a 'thriller' in the 'spiller-thriller-filler' container combination; plant it near the center of the pot, surrounded by smaller plants and those that spill over the edges. It is even sizeable enough that it can be grown alone in a suitable container. Note that when growing plants in outdoor containers and baskets, they may require more frequent waterings than they would in the yard or garden.