Uluhe
acmella caulirhiza
Also known as: ["Jamaican toothache plant","electric daisy"]
Overview
Acmella caulirhiza is a plant species known for its potential medicinal properties, particularly for its anesthetic effects when applied topically.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Acmella |
| Botanical Name: | Acmella caulirhiza |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny to partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°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 potting mix with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to partial shade in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to stronger light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pH is within range.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but avoids extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; maintain high humidity; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean cuts to shape the plant.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier, healthier plants.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, or your fingers for pinching.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) 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 root health and growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; loosen roots; add fresh soil; water; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; 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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or wilting in response to sudden temperature changes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause root damage if exposed to prolonged cold below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges in excessive heat above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.
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-toxicAcmella caulirhiza is not known to be toxic to cats under normal conditions of ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicAcmella caulirhiza is not known to be toxic to dogs under normal conditions of ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicAcmella caulirhiza is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal conditions of use.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the traditional uses of Acmella caulirhiza?
A: It has been traditionally used for its anesthetic properties, particularly for pain relief when applied topically.
Q: Is Acmella caulirhiza easy to grow?
A: It requires moderate care and is not considered very easy for beginners.
Q: Does Acmella caulirhiza have any known side effects?
A: There is limited information on side effects, but it is generally considered safe for topical use.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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