Gotu Kola
centella asiatica
Also known as: ["Asiatic pennywort","Indian pennywort","Sudanese tea"]
Overview
A creeping herbaceous plant with small, fan-shaped green leaves and slender stems, native to wetlands in Asia and Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Centella |
| Botanical Name: | Centella asiatica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a humid environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Well-draining to slightly moist; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; lightly prune throughout growing season; major pruning in spring if overgrown.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 6–8 hours/day; tolerates partial shade; avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; indoors, place near east-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; adjust light based on season.
Watering
every 3–5 days, keeping soil consistently moist
Maintain high humidity; avoid letting soil dry out completely; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil
moist, well-draining, organic-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable humidity; protect from air conditioning vents.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; fertilize after watering to avoid root burn; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings with at least 2 nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (70–80°F); indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., peat-based with perlite or sand); can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; trim stems just above a leaf node; remove yellow or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; trim to control size and shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out compacted roots; place in slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill container; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water evenly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom; focus on root zone; avoid wetting foliage; water in morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; topdress with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or browning leaf edges (heat stress); stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of root rot increases in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow; soil dries out faster.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; feed every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCentella asiatica is not known to be toxic to cats when ingested in small quantities. It is not typically associated with adverse effects in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic under normal use
Dogs
Non-toxicCentella asiatica is not known to be toxic to dogs when ingested in small quantities. It is not typically associated with adverse effects in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic under normal use
Humans
Non-toxicCentella asiatica is generally considered non-toxic for humans when used appropriately. It has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential health benefits, including wound healing and cognitive support.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic under normal use
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Centella asiatica?
A: It is used in traditional medicine for wound healing, improving cognitive function, and treating skin conditions.
Q: How should I care for Centella asiatica?
A: It thrives in partial shade, moist soil, and warm, humid conditions.
Q: Is Centella asiatica safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days, keeping soil |
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