Indian Snakeroot
rauvolfia serpentina
Also known as: ["Sarpagandha","Chandrabhaga"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub native to the Himalayas and Southeast Asia, known for its medicinal properties and toxic alkaloids.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Rauvolfia |
| Botanical Name: | Rauvolfia serpentina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a protected area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter and perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade but avoid direct sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for direct light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
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; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F) tolerated in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from drafts; adjust care for seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; cut just above a leaf node; remove leggy stems.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/damaged growth; shape plant; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean pruners, scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape evenly; 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
Use fresh well-draining soil; trim roots if necessary; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prevents root-bound issues.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; 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 reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel 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 (cold); wilting or leaf drop (heat); stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage; leaves may turn yellow or drop.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; soil dries too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in winter.
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
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the alkaloids present in Rauvolfia serpentina, which can lead to severe neurological and cardiovascular effects. Even small amounts can be harmful.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe alkaloids in Rauvolfia serpentina can cause severe toxicity in dogs, affecting the central nervous system and cardiovascular functions. Ingestion can lead to serious health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicRauvolfia serpentina contains alkaloids such as reserpine, which can have significant physiological effects on humans, including central nervous system depression and cardiovascular changes. These compounds can lead to severe toxicity if ingested in sufficient quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Rauvolfia serpentina safe for consumption?
A: No, it is toxic and should only be used under strict medical supervision.
Q: What are the primary uses of Indian Snakeroot?
A: It is used in traditional medicine to treat hypertension and snakebite.
Q: How should Rauvolfia serpentina be cared for?
A: It requires partial shade, well-drained soil, and moderate watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
