Vietnamese coriander, also known as rau ram, is a versatile and flavorful herb that is commonly used in Vietnamese, Thai, and Malaysian cuisine. When it comes to its sun and shade preferences, Vietnamese coriander can tolerate both full sun and filtered sun. However, it does benefit from some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates.
As an experienced gardener, I have grown Vietnamese coriander in both full sun and partially shaded areas. I have found that providing some shade in the afternoon helps to prevent the leaves from wilting and keeps the plant looking healthy. In areas with intense summer heat, this can be especially important to prevent heat stress.
If you are planning to grow Vietnamese coriander in a pot, make sure to choose a large container that can accommodate the plant’s spreading growth habit. This will allow the roots to have enough space to grow and provide stability to the plant. Placing the pot in an area where it receives a few hours of direct morning sun and then filtered sun for the rest of the day works well.
On the other hand, if you decide to grow Vietnamese coriander in the ground, choose a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight in the morning and early afternoon. This will ensure that the plant gets enough light to grow and thrive. However, if you live in an area with scorching afternoon sun, it is advisable to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.
To summarize, Vietnamese coriander can tolerate both full sun and filtered sun. However, to ensure optimal growth and prevent wilting, it is recommended to provide some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Whether you choose to grow it in a pot or in the ground, make sure to provide enough sunlight in the morning and early afternoon for the plant to thrive.
