Contents
Description
Tinospora Crispa, also known as “Makabuhay” in the Philippines, is a climbing vine that can grow up to 20 meters in length. It is commonly found in Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The plant belongs to the Menispermaceae family and is known for its medicinal properties, particularly for treating various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and diabetes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Menispermaceae |
| Genus | Tinospora |
Appearance
Tinospora Crispa has heart-shaped leaves that are around 10-20 cm in length. The leaves are green and glossy and have a smooth texture. The plant produces small yellow-green flowers that are around 2-3 mm in diameter. The flowers are usually found in clusters and have a pleasant fragrance. The fruit of Tinospora Crispa is small and round and turns red when it is ripe.
Care Guide
Water: Tinospora Crispa prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. However, make sure not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once every 2-3 months to promote growth.
Soil: Tinospora Crispa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix that consists of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite would be ideal.
Sunlight: The plant can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. However, it is best to keep it in a spot that receives bright, indirect sunlight.
Hardiness Zones: Tinospora Crispa can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The most common pests that affect Tinospora Crispa are spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites can be controlled by spraying the plant with water and wiping the leaves with a damp cloth. Mealybugs can be removed by using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. The plant is also prone to leaf spot disease, which can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Tinospora Crispa is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Southeast Asia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and riverbanks. The plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Tinospora Crispa easy to grow?
A: Yes, Tinospora Crispa is relatively easy to grow and care for.
Q: Is Tinospora Crispa toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Tinospora Crispa is toxic to pets. However, it is always best to keep plants out of reach of pets to avoid any potential issues.
Q: Can Tinospora Crispa be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Tinospora Crispa can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight and is kept in a well-draining soil mix.
Q: How often should Tinospora Crispa be fertilized?
A: Tinospora Crispa does not require frequent fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once every 2-3 months to promote growth.
Related Plants
- Tinospora Cordifolia
- Tinospora Sinensis
- Tinospora Baenzigeri
- Tinospora Smilacina
References
- “Tinospora crispa”. GBIF. Retrieved 2021-09-15.
- “Makabuhay (Tinospora crispa) Medicinal Uses, Benefits and Side Effects”. HerbsList.net. Retrieved 2021-09-15.
- “Tinospora crispa”. World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Retrieved 2021-09-15.
