Hydrocotyl asiatica
Family: Apiaceae
Tropical perennial, temperate annual or greenhouse plant. True
medicinal Gotu Kola, sourced directly and recently from East India.
The light green and succulent leaves make a delicious energy-boosting addition
to summer salads. This is a classic Ayurvedic herb which is said
to increase mental clarity and longevity. It is also very good for
helping to heal ulcerations, eczema, psoriasis, leprosy, epilepsy and insanity.
It promotes rapid and healthy growth of skin, hair and nails.
Cultivation: Extra care. Sow seed in greenhouse.
Seeds begin to germinate in 35 days, and continue to germinate sporadically
for months thereafter. Warm temperatures speed germination. Keep
the plants in the greenhouse, unless you live in the sub-tropics or warmer.
The plants will spread. They like nitrogen, good drainage, daily
watering, a little shade and lots of space to spread and grow. For
further details, see “Growing Tropical Plants in the Temperate North”
listed on the publications page.
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