Andrographis

Description

Andrographis is a medicinal plant that belongs to the Acanthaceae family. It is native to India and Sri Lanka but can also be found in other parts of Southeast Asia. The plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, flu, and respiratory infections.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Magnoliophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Lamiales
Family	Acanthaceae
Genus	Andrographis

Appearance

The Andrographis plant is an annual herb that can grow up to 1 meter in height. It has lance-shaped leaves that are green and arranged oppositely on the stem. The flowers are small and white with a purple spot on the petals. The fruit is a capsule that contains many small seeds.

Care Guide

Andrographis plants require regular watering, especially during the growing season. They prefer moist but well-drained soil and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks. The plant should be placed in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Andrographis is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 10-11 and should be protected from frost.

Common Pests & Diseases

Andrographis is generally healthy and resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. To prevent these pests, the plant should be kept well-watered and fertilized. If infestations occur, insecticidal soap can be used to control the pests.

Habitat

Andrographis is native to India and Sri Lanka and can be found in other parts of Southeast Asia as well. It grows in a variety of habitats, including open fields, waste areas, and along roadsides. The plant prefers a warm and humid climate.

Question and Answer

Q: What are the health benefits of Andrographis?
A: Andrographis has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, flu, and respiratory infections. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.

Q: Can Andrographis be grown indoors?
A: Andrographis can be grown indoors but requires bright, indirect light and a well-draining soil mix. It may also require supplemental humidity.

Q: How often should Andrographis be fertilized?
A: Andrographis should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season.

Q: Is Andrographis toxic to pets?
A: Andrographis is not known to be toxic to pets, but it is always best to keep plants out of reach of pets and children.

Related Plants

• Barleria
• Justicia
• Ruellia

References

• “Andrographis paniculata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276356.
• “Andrographis paniculata.” Purdue University Center for New Crops and Plant Products. https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/CropFactSheets/andrographis.html.
• “Andrographis paniculata.” University of Florida Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/EP/EP45600.pdf.