Indian Snakeroot
holarrhena pubescens
Also known as: ["Coness Tree","Kurcha","Snakeroot"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to the Indian subcontinent, known for its medicinal properties and toxic alkaloids.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Holarrhena |
| Botanical Name: | Holarrhena pubescens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions, or large indoor pot with bright light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°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 potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or every 2–3 years as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if plant is overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light, protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows or heating vents; maintain stable temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches, heading back to encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown branches to maintain shape and encourage new growth; prune after flowering or in early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, make clean cuts, remove dead/diseased wood, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, avoid fertilizing for a month.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, inspect roots, position plant correctly, water lightly, place in shaded area temporarily.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply (6–8 inches), allow excess to drain, 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 coarse sand for drainage, incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility, ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf yellowing, may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves, stop in dormant season.
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
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Holarrhena pubescens. The alkaloids present can cause discomfort but are unlikely to be fatal unless consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Holarrhena pubescens can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to its alkaloid content. While generally not life-threatening, large quantities may cause more severe symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicHolarrhena pubescens contains alkaloids that can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects when consumed in significant amounts. The physiological impact is primarily localized to the digestive system but can extend to other organs if exposure is excessive.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Indian Snakeroot safe for human consumption?
A: No, it is toxic and should only be used under strict medical supervision.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Holarrhena pubescens?
A: It has been used in traditional medicine to treat fever, diarrhea, and snakebites.
Q: How should I care for this plant?
A: Provide full sun, well-drained soil, and moderate watering; it is sensitive to overwatering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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