Khat, Qat, Chat
catha edulis
Also known as: ["Khat","Qat","Chat","Miraa"]
Overview
A flowering plant native to the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, known for its stimulant effects when chewed.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Celastrales |
| Family: | Celastraceae |
| Genus: | Catha |
| Botanical Name: | Catha edulis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or indoor pot with bright, direct light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°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, sandy, or loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or every 2 years; after flowering or during dormancy.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh midday sun; provide shade during peak summer heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in cooler months.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use cactus mix as base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures (20–30°C); tolerates heat but requires protection from frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature drops; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; seeds are less common and slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 10–15 cm cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective cutting of stems; pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/damaged growth; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; essential for continued growth.
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; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once 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 coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or chlorosis in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; risk of root damage or death in temperatures below 10°C.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide insulation or frost protection; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced growth in prolonged high temperatures above 35°C.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to stimulants like those found in Catha edulis. Ingestion can result in severe neurological and cardiovascular effects, including seizures and tachycardia.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Catha edulis can cause stimulant toxicity, leading to hyperactivity, elevated heart rate, and potential cardiac complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
ToxicCatha edulis, commonly known as khat, contains cathinone and cathine, which are stimulant alkaloids. Chronic or excessive consumption can lead to cardiovascular, neurological, and psychological effects, including hypertension, tachycardia, and anxiety.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if consumed
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Khat legal in all countries?
A: No, Khat is illegal in many countries, including the United States and parts of Europe, due to its stimulant properties.
Q: What are the health effects of chewing Khat?
A: Chewing Khat can lead to increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and potential addiction, along with other health risks.
Q: How is Khat traditionally used?
A: Khat leaves are typically chewed fresh for their stimulant effects, often in social settings in regions where it is culturally accepted.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Celastraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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