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Description
Orthosiphon Aristatus Var. Aristatus, also known as Java tea, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. This herbaceous plant is known for its medicinal properties and is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Orthosiphon |
Appearance
Orthosiphon Aristatus Var. Aristatus is a perennial plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has green, lance-shaped leaves that are around 10 centimeters long and 2 centimeters wide. The plant produces small white or blue flowers that bloom in clusters at the tip of the stem. The flowers are tubular in shape and have a pleasant fragrance.
Care Guide
To take care of Orthosiphon Aristatus Var. Aristatus, it is important to provide it with the right growing conditions. Here are some tips:- Water: Java tea requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.- Soil: Java tea prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels.- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight for extended periods.- Hardiness Zones: Java tea can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Java tea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. To prevent infestations, keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and monitor it regularly for signs of infestation. If necessary, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Orthosiphon Aristatus Var. Aristatus is native to Southeast Asia and can be found growing in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers humid environments and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Java tea be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Java tea can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with adequate light and growing conditions.
Q: Is Java tea easy to propagate?
A: Yes, Java tea can be propagated through stem cuttings or by dividing the plant.
Q: Can Java tea be used in cooking?
A: Yes, Java tea leaves can be used as a seasoning in soups and stews.
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Java tea?
A: Java tea is believed to have diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It is commonly used to treat kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and high blood pressure.
Related Plants
– Orthosiphon Aristatus Var. Bicolor- Orthosiphon Aristatus Var. Grandiflorus- Orthosiphon Aristatus Var. Stamineus
References
– “Orthosiphon Aristatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 7, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281915.- “Orthosiphon Aristatus.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed July 7, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:453042-1.
