Job's Tears
coix lacryma-jobi
Also known as: ["Adlay","Buddha's Tears","Job's Tears Grass"]
Overview
A tropical grass species cultivated for its hard, pearly seeds, which are used ornamentally and medicinally.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Coix |
| Botanical Name: | Coix lacryma-jobi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny to partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- 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: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize less in winter; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be used but require scarification.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from drafts.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can use water for stem cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; cut just above a leaf node; remove yellow or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; shape as needed.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; 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 needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wet foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf drop (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Growth slows; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of root damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover in frost; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced growth; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCoix lacryma-jobi is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines after ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCoix lacryma-jobi is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines after ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCoix lacryma-jobi, commonly known as Job's tears, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used traditionally in various cultures for ornamental and medicinal purposes without significant toxicity reported.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Job's Tears seeds edible?
A: Yes, the seeds are edible and are used in traditional cooking and medicine.
Q: How do I grow Job's Tears?
A: Plant seeds in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade; keep moist until established.
Q: Can Job's Tears be used ornamentally?
A: Yes, the hard, pearly seeds are often used in jewelry and crafts.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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