Indian Snakeweed

stachytarpheta indica

Also known as: ["Verbena indica","Snakeweed"]

Family: Verbenaceae Genus: Stachytarpheta Category: Flowers

Overview

A flowering plant in the Verbenaceae family, native to tropical regions, known for its vibrant purple flowers and medicinal uses.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Verbenaceae
Genus: Stachytarpheta
Botanical Name: Stachytarpheta indica

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm, sheltered area
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season; heavy pruning in late winter/early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Morning sun is ideal; rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content

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

Use cactus mix as base; add organic matter for nutrients; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C); sensitive to frost.

Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain consistent warmth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize in spring/summer only; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; stop in fall/winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

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

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

Environment

Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity, indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 8–12 weeks.

Tools Needed

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

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back stems to encourage new growth.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).

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 growth and health.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

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.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water to the roots without splashing leaves.
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 good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Stems may become brittle; growth halts; risk of frost damage below 50°F/10°C.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with frost cloth in cold spells; avoid overwatering.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Stachytarpheta indica may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Stachytarpheta indica can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Stachytarpheta indica may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Stachytarpheta indica due to excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Stachytarpheta indica. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort in sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested

Prevent cats from ingesting the plant; seek veterinary advice if symptoms persist.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Stachytarpheta indica may lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested

Keep pets from consuming large amounts of the plant; monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal distress.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Stachytarpheta indica contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant amounts. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten in large quantities

Consume only in moderation; avoid large quantities to prevent gastrointestinal upset.
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 Stachytarpheta indica toxic to pets?

A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.

Q: How often should I water Stachytarpheta indica?

A: Water sparingly, as it is drought tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.

Q: Does Stachytarpheta indica attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Verbenaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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