Siam weed
gynura procumbens
Also known as: ["Siam vine","Green longevity spinach"]
Overview
A creeping herbaceous plant with succulent stems and ovate leaves, often used in traditional medicine.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Gynura |
| Botanical Name: | Gynura procumbens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or shaded outdoor garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: rarely required unless in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth at a time to avoid shock.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to sunlight gradually to avoid leaf burn; protect from intense midday sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in tropical conditions with high humidity.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from frost or extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost tea for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; leaf cuttings can also be used but are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, place in medium, keep moist, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water; perlite or sand can improve aeration.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove old or damaged growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, disinfectant (optional).
Checklist
Sanitize tools, cut above nodes, remove dead/damaged growth, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if crowded, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Select new pot, prepare soil mix, inspect roots, trim if needed, repot carefully, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback; prolonged cold may lead to root rot.
Solution: Keep plants away from drafty windows or cold surfaces; provide a heat source if temperatures drop below 60°F (15°C); reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid winter feeding, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGynura procumbens is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to felines, and ingestion is unlikely to cause significant health issues.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicGynura procumbens is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines, and ingestion is unlikely to cause significant health issues.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Slightly ToxicGynura procumbens contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when consumed in significant amounts. The plant is generally considered safe for culinary use in moderation, but excessive intake may lead to adverse effects due to its bioactive constituents.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Gynura procumbens edible?
A: Yes, it is used as a leafy vegetable in some cuisines and has traditional medicinal applications.
Q: How should I care for Gynura procumbens?
A: It thrives in partial shade, requires moderate watering, and benefits from well-drained soil.
Q: Does Gynura procumbens attract wildlife?
A: It is not typically known for attracting wildlife, but its foliage may support local insect populations.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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