Andrographis paniculata
TAXONOMY
FamilyAcanthaceae
GenusAndrographis
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Andrographis paniculata, commonly known as 'King of Bitters' or 'Kalmegh', is an annual herbaceous plant in the family Acanthaceae. It is native to South Asian countries such as India and Sri Lanka. The plant is known for its bitter taste and is widely used in traditional medicine. It thrives in seasonally dry tropical climates and is typically grown as an annual.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Justicia Latebrosa
King Of Bitters
Andrographis paniculata var. glandulosa
Justicia paniculata
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Andrographis paniculata requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It prefers moderate temperatures and moderate humidity levels. Water the plant when the soil is almost completely dry, but avoid waterlogging. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth.Soil
The plant prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Ensure the soil dries out almost completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Good drainage is essential for the health of the plant.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to nutrient burn.Repotting
Repot Andrographis paniculata annually or when the plant outgrows its current container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Propagate Andrographis paniculata through seeds or stem cuttings. For seed propagation, sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist until germination. For stem cuttings, take a healthy cutting, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water or soil until roots develop.Pruning
Prune the plant regularly to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves and trim back any overgrown branches. Pruning is best done during the growing season.Toxicity
Andrographis paniculata is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to prevent any accidental ingestion.Additional
Andrographis paniculata is valued for its medicinal properties and is often used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immune-boosting properties. The plant's bitter compounds are believed to be responsible for its therapeutic effects.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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