How many plants for average family:
5 or 6 clumps per family

Type of plant:
Annual

Best Varieties:

Sowing:
Sow clumps of at least 6 seeds together every month through Spring and Autumn to have a continual supply.

Growing Habit:
This is a loose, feathery foliaged plant with bright green leaves and small white to pink flowers in summer. It grows to around 60cm high.

Growing Conditions:
This herb needs moist, cool conditions to do well. Plant in the shade in warmer weather. Pick leaves regulary and feed with liquid feed fortnightly to keep up new growth. Too much fertiliser reduces the flavour.

Companions:
Broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, Carrots, cauliflower, chervil, dill, parsnip.
Do not plant near feverfew.

Problems:
Bolts to seed in hot weather.
Frost sensitive.
Short lived.
Moist soil can bring on mildew.

Uses:
"Umbelliferous" flower formation is useful for attracting predatory insects into the garden.
Leaves, roots and seeds used for cooking especially Mediterranean or Asian foods.
Coriander tea made from crushed seed is said to relieve cramps because of its anti-spasmodic properties. It is also used for digestive disorders.

For more information:

coriander
... Coriander is probably native to the Middle East and southern Europe, but has also been known in Asia ... the colour of manna' is compared to coriander. The seed is now ...
http://www.theepicentre.com/Spices/coriander.html

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)
The Herb Guide features articles and information on growing and using herbs. ... Catnip Cayenne Chamomile Chervil Chives Coriander Dill English Mallow Feverfew Fennel Garlic ... and the spherical seeds of coriander are indispensable in the kitchen, especially ...
http://www.gardenguides.com/herbs/coriander.htm

McCormick - Spice Encyclopedia - Coriander
All about Coriander -- description, uses, origins, folklore and recipes. The McCormick Spice Encyclopedia is the definitive resource on herbs and spices. Dictionary style reference guide includes photos and illustrations, usage tips, spice ... Description. Coriander is the dried, ripe fruit of the herb Coriandum sativum ...
http://www.mccormick.com/content.cfm?id=8217

Coriander
... General Description. Coriander is the seed of Coriandrum sativum, a plant in the parsley family ... History/Region of Origin. Coriander is probably one of the first spices used ...
http://www.culinarycafe.com/Spices_Herbs/Coriander.html