Mexican tea, Jesuit's tea, Paico, Wormseed, Epazote
chenopodium ambrosioides
Also known as: ["Mexican tea","Jesuit's tea","Paico","Wormseed","Epazote"]
Overview
A strongly aromatic annual or perennial herb native to Central and South America, widely used as a culinary herb and traditional medicine.
Benefits & Perks
["culinary herb","medicinal use","fragrant flowers","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Chenopodium |
| Botanical Name: | Chenopodium ambrosioides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a warm, sheltered spot or container in a sunny patio
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during growing season; as needed to control size.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid prolonged direct sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in cooler months.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize less in winter; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), container, water or soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity for faster rooting; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); avoid oversized pots.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out roots if pot-bound; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
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 thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or chlorosis in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may become stunted.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; ensure adequate water.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
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
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Chenopodium ambrosioides. The plant's essential oils and ascaridole can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Chenopodium ambrosioides can lead to toxicity due to the presence of ascaridole and other volatile compounds. These substances can disrupt normal physiological functions, particularly affecting the gastrointestinal and nervous systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicChenopodium ambrosioides, commonly known as Mexican tea or wormseed, contains toxic compounds such as ascaridole, which can cause physiological disturbances when ingested in significant amounts. The plant has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, particularly as an anthelmintic, but excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Epazote safe for human consumption?
A: Yes, when used in moderation as a culinary herb, but it contains toxic compounds if consumed in large quantities.
Q: How do I grow Epazote?
A: Sow seeds in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade; it thrives in warm climates.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Epazote?
A: It has been used traditionally to treat intestinal parasites, as a flavoring in bean dishes, and for its aromatic properties.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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