Andrographis paniculata KING OF BITTERS (20 seeds)

King of bitters, also known as Chuan Xin Lian, kariyat, Kalmegh, or Andrographis paniculata in Latin, is a small herbaceous plant measuring 50 to 80 cm in height. Native to Asia and belonging to the Acanthaceae family, Chiretta is non-hardy. It is also referred to as green Chirreta, Carmantine, Mahalita.

Flowering occurs during the summer period. Its flowers are white with a touch of violet on the upper part of the petals. They are tube-shaped and grouped in spikes. The leaves are alternate, simple, and lanceolate, generally measuring between 4 to 10 cm in length. They are an intense green color and often have serrated edges.

King of bitters seeds are small and can be yellow, brown, or sometimes gray. The seeds are cylindrical and typically measure 1 millimeter in length.

- Uses:

Chuan Xin Lian in the Chinese pharmacopoeia is a plant renowned for its powerful bitter properties. It is traditionally used to stimulate the immune system and fight respiratory infections. Its active compounds, andrographolides, give it a global protective and fortifying action.

Due to its virtues, this plant acts as a natural regulator. In many Asian cultures, it is considered a first-choice remedy.

Beyond internal use, kalmegh finds topical applications to treat various skin problems. Although its taste is extremely bitter, its effectiveness makes it an essential plant in modern herbal medicine and natural supplements dedicated to vitality.

Do not consume without medical advice.

- Sowing and Germination:

• The most favorable time to sow Green Chiretta is at the beginning of May.
• Soak the seeds for 6 hours in lukewarm water.
• Sow in a tray of pre-sifted, moist peat.
• Cover with one or two millimeters of substrate and press down gently.
• Water the seedlings delicately using a hand sprayer.
• Place the culture in a greenhouse in a warm, humid spot at a temperature of at least 25°C.
• Germination generally begins after 2 to 3 weeks.
• Once the seedlings reach 15 cm in height, they should be transplanted directly into the garden or moved to a larger pot.

- Soil and Substrate:

Kariyat grows in soil rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic pH (such as heather soil or peat). Remember to provide drainage at the bottom of the pot with gravel or clay pebbles.

- Watering and Humidity:

Chuan Xin Lian loves humidity; it requires several waterings per week to ensure good growth. During the summer, the plant will need to be watered 2 to 3 times per week.

- Light and Exposure:

It requires slightly filtered light and thrives in shaded or even full-shade environments. Regarding artificial lighting, fluorescent tubes or horticultural LED grow lights are preferred.

- Temperatures and Hardiness:

Green Chirreta grows very well when the temperature is between 20°C and 30°C. Due to its exotic origin, it is unfortunately not hardy and dies when temperatures drop below 0°C. Its USDA hardiness zone is 9-11.

- Propagation:

The only way to reproduce this plant is by sowing seeds as soon as the warm weather arrives. Unfortunately, this medicinal plant cannot be grown from cuttings.-  

- Diseases and Pests:

The "Herb of the God of Medicine" is rarely attacked by pests, nor is it prone to bacterial or fungal infections.

- Maintenance:

Be sure to cut back any dry parts of the plant at the end of the year.