Acmella Oppositifolia

Description

Acmella Oppositifolia, commonly known as Toothache Plant, is a herbaceous flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South America and is now widely cultivated in many other parts of the world for its medicinal and culinary uses. The plant is characterized by its small, yellow, button-like flowers that bloom in summer and its strong, pungent taste that numbs the mouth and tongue.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Acmella Oppositifolia is a small perennial plant that grows up to 30 cm in height. Its leaves are opposite, toothed, and dark green in color. The flowers are yellow, globe-shaped, and measure about 1 cm in diameter. The plant has a strong odor and a pungent taste that numbs the mouth and tongue when chewed or consumed.

Care Guide

Acmella Oppositifolia is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you keep your Toothache Plant healthy:

Water

Water your plant regularly, but do not overwater it. Acmella Oppositifolia prefers slightly moist soil, so water it when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Fertilization

Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize it during the dormant season (fall and winter).

Soil

Acmella Oppositifolia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that contains sand, perlite, or vermiculite to improve drainage.

Sunlight

Place your plant in a sunny location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, it can also grow in partial shade.

Hardiness Zones

Acmella Oppositifolia grows best in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. If you live in a colder climate, you can grow it as an indoor plant.

Common Pests & Diseases

Acmella Oppositifolia is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not water the plant excessively.

Habitat

Acmella Oppositifolia is native to South America, particularly Brazil, Peru, and Bolivia. It grows in open fields, pastures, and disturbed areas, and can also be found along roadsides and riverbanks.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Acmella Oppositifolia be grown as an indoor plant?

A: Yes, Acmella Oppositifolia can be grown as an indoor plant in colder climates. Just make sure it receives enough sunlight and is not overwatered.

Q: How often should I water my Toothache Plant?

A: Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Do not overwater it, as this can cause root rot.

Q: Can I use Toothache Plant to treat toothache?

A: Yes, Toothache Plant has been traditionally used to treat toothache and other oral problems. Its numbing effect can alleviate pain and inflammation in the mouth and gums.

Q: Can I consume Toothache Plant?

A: Yes, Toothache Plant is edible and is commonly used in salads, soups, and stews. Its pungent taste can add flavor to dishes and can also be used as a natural food preservative.

Related Plants

• Acmella Oleracea
• Acmella Grandiflora
• Acmella Paniculata
• Acmella Repens

References

• Plants of the World Online. (2021). Acmella Oppositifolia (Lam.) R.K.Jansen. Kew Science. Retrieved from https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:181764-1
• CABI. (2021). Acmella Oppositifolia (toothache plant). Invasive Species Compendium. Retrieved from https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/98124
• Gentry, H. S. (1973). Acmella Oppositifolia (Compositae): Its Distribution and Ethnobotanical Uses. Economic Botany, 27(1), 68-75. doi: 10.1007/BF02860758