Wormwood Pinkroot

spigelia anthelmia

Also known as: ["Pinkroot","Indian Pink","Worm Grass"]

Family: Loganiaceae Genus: Spigelia Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A herbaceous plant native to the Americas, known for its medicinal properties and striking flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Gentianales
Family: Loganiaceae
Genus: Spigelia
Botanical Name: Spigelia anthelmia

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°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 coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems.
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 direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near east-facing windows in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of peat, perlite, and loam; avoid heavy clay soils; check drainage by watering and observing runoff.

Temperature

Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoids extremes.

Avoid drafty areas; maintain consistent room temperature; use a thermometer to monitor conditions.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape the plant.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply but does not pool; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing leaves in cold; stunted growth or flower bud drop in heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid overwatering.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, and flowering may be reduced.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer label; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; stop in dormant season.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); cease in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Spigelia anthelmia may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as spider mites or mealybugs. It can also be a sign of environmental stress, such as excessive sunlight or poor soil drainage.

Wilting in Spigelia anthelmia is often caused by water stress, either due to under or overwatering. It can also result from root damage, pest infestations, or fungal infections that impair water uptake, leading to dehydration and potential plant death.

Leaf spots on Spigelia anthelmia may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, such as Cercospora or Xanthomonas, leading to discoloured, necrotic areas on leaves. Severe infections can cause defoliation and reduce the plant's vigour.

Rotting in Spigelia anthelmia is typically associated with root or stem rot caused by overwatering or poor drainage, leading to fungal infections like Pythium or Fusarium. This can cause the plant to decay from the roots upwards, eventually killing it.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Spigelia anthelmia. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and cardiac toxicity, with potential for fatal outcomes due to the plant's potent alkaloids.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy abdominal pain irregular heartbeat tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek emergency veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Spigelia anthelmia can lead to severe toxicity due to its alkaloid content. The plant can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and cardiac issues, which may be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy abdominal pain irregular heartbeat tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Spigelia anthelmia contains toxic alkaloids that can cause significant physiological effects, including cardiac disturbances and neurological symptoms. The plant's effects are due to its potent cardiac glycosides and other bioactive compounds that interfere with normal bodily functions.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness irregular heartbeat confusion seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep out of reach of children and avoid ingestion. Seek immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Spigelia anthelmia safe for pets?

A: No, it is toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: What are the medicinal uses of Spigelia anthelmia?

A: It has been traditionally used to treat parasitic infections, particularly worms.

Q: How should Spigelia anthelmia be cared for?

A: It requires moderate care, including well-drained soil and partial sunlight.

Quick Reference
Family: Loganiaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Indian Pink
View
Poison Bulb Tree
View
Grand-flowered Anthocleista
View
Poison Nut Tree
View