Cuminum cyminum
Overview
Uses: Culinary herb, spice gardens, raised beds, and container growing.
Benefits: Warm-season annual herb grown for its aromatic seeds used in cuisines worldwide. Produces delicate feathery foliage and small white flowers that attract pollinators before setting flavorful seeds for harvest.
USDA Hardiness Zones: Annual (tender in all zones; grow during warm months only)
Life Cycle: Warm-season annual
Sun: Full Sun
Mature Height: 12" – 20"
Mature Width: 8" – 12"
Bloom Season: Summer
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
Cuminum cyminum is a highly aromatic herb valued for its flavorful seeds that form one of the world’s most popular spices — cumin. Native to the Mediterranean and Middle East, this annual thrives in hot, dry conditions and rewards growers with a bountiful late-summer seed harvest.
The fine, feathery foliage and clusters of pale white-pink blooms add delicate beauty to herb gardens, while its drought tolerance and compact size make it ideal for raised beds or sunny containers. Cumin brings both ornamental charm and culinary versatility to the garden.
Care
Cumin Care
Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost or sow directly outdoors once soil has warmed. Choose a sunny, well-drained site with sandy or loamy soil.
Water moderately — cumin prefers drier conditions once established. Avoid overwatering, as this can reduce seed quality and promote fungal issues.
Feed lightly in early growth with a balanced slow release fertilizer to encourage strong root development and flowering.
Harvest seeds when flower heads turn brown and dry. Cut whole umbels, place them in a paper bag, and allow them to dry fully before collecting the seeds.
Size
Size of Cumin for Sale Online
Our Cuminum cyminum plants are greenhouse-grown and shipped healthy and well-rooted in their nursery pots. Each plant will be appropriately sized for its container. For sizing questions, please contact us.
Size of Cumin When Fully Grown
Cumin typically grows 12"–20" tall and 8"–12" wide, forming a soft, airy mound of fine foliage topped with umbels of white blooms.
Additional Information
How long does it take cumin to mature?
Seeds are typically ready for harvest 100–120 days after planting, once flower heads have dried and browned.
Can I grow cumin in containers?
Yes — choose a pot at least 8" deep with excellent drainage and place it in a sunny, warm spot. Avoid excessive watering.
Does cumin need hot weather?
Yes — cumin thrives in hot, dry climates with full sun and warm soil. It performs best in daytime temps between 75–90°F.
Is cumin self-pollinating?
Yes — but it also benefits from pollinators such as bees and hoverflies, which help improve seed yield and quality.
Can I save cumin seeds for replanting?
Yes — after drying and cleaning, store seeds in a cool, dry place. Viable seeds remain good for planting for up to 3 years.
