Synonyms: Acmella oleracea
Perennial herb in tropical areas, annual herb in temperate areas. Native to Brazil. Grows to 45-60cm and features small brown and yellow flowers on sprawling bronze/green foliage. Leaves have a unique flavour and a tingly cool sensation when consumed, they can be eaten fresh, added to salads or cooked like greens. Traditionally used as a medicinal herb to treat toothache and throat infections due to its anti-inflammatory and saliva producing properties. Useful as a natural insecticide. Flower heads can be used fresh or dried and are often used in cocktails due to their unusual cooling and numbing sensation when consumed. Can be grown indoors. Also known as "The toothache plant", "Spilanthes", "Para Cress", "Sichuan Buttons", "Buzz Buttons" or "Electric Daisy".
Method: | Raise seedlings or Sow direct |
Sowing Depth: | 1mm |
When: | Spring after frost |
Row Spacing: | 50cm |
Position: | Part sun to Full sun, moist well drained soil |
Plant Spacing: | 30cm |
Hardiness: | Frost Tender |
Plant Height: | 45-60cm |
Days to Maturity/flowering: | 120+ days |
Care: | Sow on the surface (requires light to germinate). Keep well watered. Seeds can take up to 14 days to germinate. |
SKU | G3-15 |
Seeds per gram: | 4300 seeds |