Toothache Plant

Toothache Plant

Acmella spilanthes oleracea

Synonyms: Acmella oleracea

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• Traditional medicinal herb

• Natural Insecticide

• Also known as "Buzz Buttons" or "Electric Daisy"

Perennial herb in tropical areas, annual herb in temperate areas. Native to Brazil. Grows to 45-60cm and features small brown and yellow flowers on sprawling bronze/green foliage. Leaves have a unique flavour and a tingly cool sensation when consumed, they can be eaten fresh, added to salads or cooked like greens. Traditionally used as a medicinal herb to treat toothache and throat infections due to its anti-inflammatory and saliva producing properties. Useful as a natural insecticide. Flower heads can be used fresh or dried and are often used in cocktails due to their unusual cooling and numbing sensation when consumed. Can be grown indoors. Also known as "The toothache plant", "Spilanthes", "Para Cress", "Sichuan Buttons", "Buzz Buttons" or "Electric Daisy".

 

How to sow and grow:

Method:	Raise seedlings or Sow direct
Sowing Depth:	1mm
When:	Spring after frost
Germination:	5-7 days @ 22-24°C
Hardiness / Life Cycle:	Frost Tender Perennial (grown as an annual in cool climates)
Row Spacing:	50cm
Plant Spacing:	30cm
Plant Height:	45-60cm
Position:	Part sun to Full sun, moist well drained soil.
Days to Maturity/Flowering:	120+ days

*Notes: Sow on the surface (requires light to germinate). Keep well watered. Seeds can take up to 14 days to germinate.

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