Contents
Description
Orthosiphon, also known as cat’s whiskers, is a medicinal herb that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia, but it can now be found in other tropical countries such as Australia and Africa. This herb is known for its diuretic properties and has been used for centuries to treat kidney and bladder problems, as well as hypertension, diabetes, and rheumatism.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Orthosiphon |
Appearance
Orthosiphon is a perennial herb that can grow up to 1 meter tall. Its leaves are opposite, lanceolate, and have serrated edges. The flowers are tubular and can be white or purple in color, growing in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant’s roots are fibrous and can grow up to 60 cm long.
Care Guide
Orthosiphon is a low-maintenance plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It prefers well-draining soil and needs to be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. Fertilization should be done once a month during the growing season. Orthosiphon needs full sun to thrive and is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Orthosiphon is relatively pest-resistant, but it can attract spider mites and whiteflies. It is also susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To prevent pest infestations, it is recommended to keep the plant’s foliage dry and to regularly inspect for any signs of pests. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil has good drainage.
Habitat
Orthosiphon is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. It grows in tropical climates and can be found in lowland forests, riverbanks, and disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can orthosiphon be grown indoors?
A: Yes, orthosiphon can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a well-lit area and the soil is kept moist.
Q: How often should orthosiphon be fertilized?
A: Orthosiphon should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: Is orthosiphon safe to consume?
A: Orthosiphon has been traditionally used as a medicinal herb, but it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming it.
Q: How often should orthosiphon be watered?
A: Orthosiphon needs to be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, but it should not be overwatered. The frequency of watering depends on the environment and the soil’s moisture level.
Related Plants
- Salvia
- Mentha
- Rosmarinus
- Lavandula
- Thymus
References
- “Orthosiphon aristatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277667&isprofile=0&=&=&=&=&=&matchtype=exact&=&height=0&=width=0&=bloomtime=0&=&color=0&=&ph=0&=&exposure=0&=&texture=0&=&form=0&=&search=orthosiphon>
- “Orthosiphon stamineus.” Purdue University. Accessed 10 May 2021. <https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/CropFactSheets/orthosiphon.html>
- “Orthosiphon.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 10 May 2021. <http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:455330-1>
