Gynostemma pentaphyllum JIAOGULAN (10 seeds)

Jiaogulan, miracle grass also known as Herb of Immortality or Gynostemma pentaphyllum in Latin, is a hardy perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. This very fast-growing creeping species can grow several meters per year. It is native to Asia and is widely used in Japan and China.

Jiaogulan seeds are brown and heart-shaped, measuring an average of 2 millimeters in diameter.

The flowers are small and unremarkable, often white to greenish in color. They appear in clusters starting in August and are generally very discreet, measuring only 5 millimeters in diameter.

Its fruits are small berries that form after pollination. They are generally green, turning black at maturity, and contain the seeds.

The leaves are palmate and composed of five to seven leaflets. The leaflets are oval, pointed, and have a shiny green color. The foliage is very dense and is also appreciated for its slightly bitter and sweet taste.

- Uses:

Originating from the mountainous regions of Asia, Jiaogulan is a plant famous for its vigor and resilience. Nicknamed the "herb of immortality" in local traditions, it holds a prominent place in Asian ethnobotany. This plant is particularly valued by collectors for its elegant foliage and its ability to adapt to various environments, reflecting its character as a so-called adaptogenic plant.

An Infusion with Historical Roots:

Traditionally, the leaves whether fresh or dried are used to prepare drinks with subtle vegetal notes. In Japan, its naturally sweet taste earned it the name Amachazuru. Although its molecular composition shares similarities with ginseng (notably the presence of gypenosides), Jiaogulan stands out with a lighter flavor, ideal for consumption as a botanical infusion.

Despite its historical popularity, Jiaogulan contains powerful active principles that can interact with certain metabolisms or treatments. Its consumption should in no way replace professional medical advice. As a precaution, it is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or young children.

- Germination and Sowing of Seeds:

• The ideal period to sow Tea of Immortality begins at the end of February.
• Stratify the seeds either naturally by leaving them outside in mid-winter or artificially by placing them in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 weeks.
• Prepare a tray of fine horticultural potting soil.
• Sow the seeds 2 cm apart.
• Cover them with 1 or 2 millimeters of substrate.
• Water gently with a sprayer.
• Keep the seedling tray in a greenhouse in a warm, humid spot at a temperature of approximately 25°C.
• Germination generally takes 2 to 4 weeks after stratification.

- Soil Type:

It grows in well-aerated, fertile soil rich in organic matter, ideally with a pH between 6 and 7. The base of the plant should be kept cool.

- Exposure:

Gynostemma pentaphyllum prefers a sunny or slightly shaded exposure. If possible, the base of the plant should be in the shade (under other vegetation).

- Temperatures:

Centenarians Tea appreciates mild temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. It can tolerate cooler temperatures, though growth will be affected. The root system is very hardy and can withstand negative temperatures down to -10°C.

- Watering:

This exceptional variety requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is best to water when the top layer of soil begins to dry out.