What is the primary use of the Toothache Plant?
The Toothache Plant, Acmella oleracea, is traditionally used to relieve toothache due to its numbing properties caused by the compound spilanthol.
Toothache Plant (Acmella oleracea)
Acmella oleracea, the Toothache Plant, is a tropical herb valued for its medicinal properties and unique flower heads, offering a tingling sensation when chewed.
Above information is sourced from Wikipedia
Sunlight
Prefers full sun to partial shade.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Soil
Well-draining, fertile soil. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures.
Habitat
Outdoor, Indoor, Greenhouse
Fertilizer
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Care Requirements
Light
Prefers full sun to partial shade.
In hotter climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial.
Water
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Soil
Well-draining, fertile soil. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures.
Ideal range is 18-25°C. Protect from frost.
Habitat
Outdoor, Indoor, Greenhouse
Fertilizer
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Apply every 4-6 weeks; avoid over-fertilizing.
Plant Overview
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Category
Medicinal, Ornamental
Plant Place Type
Ground, Pot
Plant Environment
Outdoor, Indoor, Greenhouse
Lifespan
Perennials
Plant Height
0.3-0.6 m
Spread
0.3-0.6 m
Growth Rate
Moderate
Dormancy
None in tropical climates; may go dormant in cooler temperatures
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Opposite, ovate to elliptic
Flower Size
1-1.5 cm
Optimal Sunlight Lux
50000
Image Gallery
Flowering & Fruiting Cycles
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Northern hemisphere
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Peak bloom · AugPeak fruit · Aug
FloweringFruiting
Southern hemisphere
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Peak bloom · FebPeak fruit · Feb
FloweringFruiting
Synonyms
Anacyclus pyrethraria (L.) Spreng.
Bidens acmelloides Bergius
Bidens fixa Hook.f.
Bidens fusca Lam.
Cotula dichotoma Pers.
Cotula pyrethraria L.
Isocarpha pyrethraria (L.) Cass.
Spilanthes oleracea L.
Taxonomy
- kingdomPlantae
- divisionTracheophyta
- classMagnoliopsida
- orderAsterales
- familyAsteraceae
- genusAcmella
- speciesAcmella oleracea
Toxicity
Toxic for humans
No
Rating: 0/5
Toxic for pets
No
Rating: 0/5
Edible
No
Additional Care Tips
Water regularly to maintain consistently moist soil, especially during dry periods. Reduce watering slightly in cooler months.
Pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess. Remove spent flower heads to prolong blooming. Trim as needed to maintain desired shape.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Seeds can also be sown indoors in early spring. Cuttings root quickly in moist soil or water.
Repot annually or when root-bound, typically in spring. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current root ball.
FAQs
How do I care for a Toothache Plant?
Provide full sun to partial shade, consistently moist well-draining soil, and warm temperatures. Water regularly and fertilize during the growing season.
Can I grow Toothache Plant indoors?
Yes, Acmella oleracea can be grown indoors as a houseplant, provided it receives adequate light and consistent moisture. It may require supplemental lighting.
Why is my Toothache Plant not flowering?
Lack of sufficient sunlight, inconsistent watering, or nutrient deficiencies can prevent flowering. Ensure it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily and is properly fertilized.
How do I propagate Toothache Plant?
Propagation is easy from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Cuttings root quickly in moist soil or water, allowing for rapid expansion of the plant.