Lawsonia inermis HENNA (20 seeds)

Henna, also known as mehendi, is a thorny shrub from the Lythraceae family. It is a small evergreen shrub that grows 1 to 2 meters in height. It is native to Iran.

The fragrant flowers are small, white, and clustered in terminal inflorescences. They have five petals that open into a star shape.

Its fruits are ovoid capsules, measuring approximately 1 to 2 centimeters in length. They are green when ripe and turn brown as they dry. The fruits are not edible.

Mehndi seeds from Lawsonia inermis are dark brown in color. They are hard, angular, and smooth, measuring 2 millimeters in length.

Its leaves are oval, shiny green, and measure between 2 and 8 centimeters long. They are arranged in a spiral along the stems. The leaves are characterized by their smooth texture and pleasant scent when crushed.

- Uses:

The leaves are renowned for their dyeing properties because they contain pigments used in the production of henna, a natural dye prized in various cultures. Its leaves produce hues such as red and yellow, used for textile and body dyeing. A highly appreciated perfume is extracted from its small flowers. The term also refers to this dye, whose use is very ancient, as traces of it have been found on Egyptian mummies.

Mainly used by women, it helps nurture beliefs; through this practice, they can overcome problems at home and in life in general. It is said to be a sign of good fortune and protects against bad luck.

In cosmetics and aesthetics, it beautifies, cleanses, and purifies the skin. It is also applied to the hair for dyeing, as well as to the feet and hands. In Morocco, it is part of the arsenal of female seduction.
Do not consume without medical advice from a healthcare professional.

- Germination and Sowing of Seeds:

• The ideal period to sow henna starts at the end of May.
• Soak fresh seeds for 12 hours in lukewarm water before planting.
• Sow in a 1-liter pot with a mixture of 70% potting soil and 30% fine sand.
• Cover them with 1 to 3 millimeters of fine potting soil.
• Spray water over the top to moisten the planting.
• Let them germinate in a warm place where the temperature is around 25 to 30°C.
• Germination will begin 2 to 3 weeks after sowing.

- Substrate / Soil Type:

Mehend Beej prefers well-drained, light soil, ideally rich in organic matter. Use a mixture of potting soil, sand, and compost to provide optimal growth. However, it prefers a slightly acidic pH around 6 to 7.

- Exposure / Light:

Plant the seedling in full sun exposure. It thrives in very bright locations where it receives at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

Loving warm temperatures, henna grows well when temperatures range between 20 and 35°C. It is sensitive to cold and does not tolerate temperatures below 5°C. In colder regions, it is preferable to grow it in pots. Its USDA hardiness zone is 9-11.

- Watering / Irrigation:

It requires regular watering, especially during planting but also during the hot and dry periods of summer. However, avoid excess water, as this can lead to root rot. I advise you to water the plant when the top layer of soil is dry to the touch. During periods of high heat, water the base more frequently.

- Multiplication / Reproduction:

Multiply mehndi either by sowing or by taking semi-ripe stem cuttings, about 10-15 cm long. Plant these in a mixture of potting soil and sand, keeping the soil moist in a warm and bright place.

- Maintenance:

Apply a balanced fertilizer every month during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Pruning can be carried out to encourage better branching and a more compact shape for the shrub. This can be done in late winter or early spring.