Mexican Mint Marigold
justicia spicigera
Also known as: ["Mexican tarragon","Mexican marigold mint","Spanish tarragon"]
Overview
A perennial herb native to Mexico, valued for its aromatic leaves and edible flowers, often used in culinary applications.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","culinary herb","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Genus: | Justicia |
| Botanical Name: | Justicia spicigera |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry 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: Light pruning every 2–3 months; heavier pruning annually or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can handle significant pruning but avoid removing more than one-third of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to direct sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; maintain stable temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or moist soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting with at least 2 nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or crossing branches; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; 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
Use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage; water after repotting; avoid fertilizing for a month.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water until it drains from the bottom; discard excess water from saucer.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
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 organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or leaf drop in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; use diluted solution; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicJusticia spicigera is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
not typically toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicJusticia spicigera is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
not typically toxic
Humans
Slightly ToxicJusticia spicigera, commonly known as Mexican honeysuckle, is generally considered non-toxic but can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if consumed in large amounts. The plant contains compounds that may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Mexican Mint Marigold safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Can the leaves of Justicia spicigera be used in cooking?
A: Yes, the leaves are often used as a substitute for tarragon in culinary dishes.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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