Jute Mallow
corchorus trilocularis
Also known as: ["Jute Mallow","Bush Okra","Nalta Jute"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant native to tropical regions, known for its edible leaves and stems used in traditional cuisines.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","culinary herb","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Corchorus |
| Botanical Name: | Corchorus trilocularis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm, sheltered area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required unless in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
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 gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme cold or heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from vents; monitor seasonal shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
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.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
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 medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Encourage bushier growth and remove leggy stems.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged stems.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove old soil; trim roots if needed; use fresh well-draining mix.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, avoiding wetting foliage. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall/winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing in cold; scorching or stunted growth in heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade; 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 spring/summer. Cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCorchorus trilocularis is not known to be toxic to cats. It is not typically associated with adverse effects when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCorchorus trilocularis is not known to be toxic to dogs. It is not typically associated with adverse effects when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCorchorus trilocularis, commonly known as Jute Mallow, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is often consumed as a leafy vegetable in various cuisines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Corchorus trilocularis edible?
A: Yes, its leaves and young stems are edible and used in various cuisines.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is it toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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