Calea zacatechichi DREAM HERBS (plant)

Dream Herb, also known as Bitter Grass or Calea zacatechichi, is an ethnobotanical herbaceous plant. Native to Mexico, it is a fast-growing perennial belonging to the Asteraceae family. It has a slender growth habit and reaches a height of approximately 2 meters.

The leaves are long, thick, narrow, and velvety. They measure between 2 and 7 cm in length and are slightly aromatic. The flowers are small, daisy-shaped, and grouped into inflorescences or panicles, featuring yellow and white colors. The flowering period begins at the start of the warm season.

Dream herb seeds are fine, oval, and elongated, measuring an average of 8 millimeters in length. They are generally dispersed by the wind.

- Uses:

This oneirogenic plant, which induces lucid dreams, is traditionally used by certain indigenous cultures for various spiritual and therapeutic practices.

The Chontal Mayan shamans of Oaxaca would take an infusion of crushed, dried leaves of Chichixihuitl during divinatory ceremonies. Believing in the visions induced by the dreams of the "Leaf of the Gods," as they called it, the Chontal tribes used it to clarify the senses. In some cultures, the herb is used during shamanic rituals to promote meditation and spiritual connection.
Do not consume for psychoactive or medicinal effects; cultivate solely for the preservation of the botanical species.

- Cultivation and Planting:

• Prepare a 5-liter pot with light horticultural potting soil rich in organic matter.
• Ensure the bottom of the pot is well-drained with clay pebbles.
• Plant the root section of the dream herb up to the level of the crown.
• Water at the base of the plant immediately after planting.
• Choose a location that is shaded or sunny.
• Depending on the time of purchase, it may be necessary to gently acclimate the plant over several days by placing a plastic bag over the pot.

- Soil and Substrate:

The plant thrives in light, well-draining soil that is relatively rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic pH. Repot the plant every 4 to 6 months if necessary.

- Watering and Irrigation:

It must grow in a warm and humid environment, such as a greenhouse or indoors in a bathroom. It is recommended to water the plant 2 to 3 times a week in summer, and only once a week in winter. Never let water stagnate in the saucers, as this poses a risk of root rot.

- Light and Exposure:

This rare shamanic ethnobotanical plant acclimates to all types of light, whether full sun or shaded spots (under a tree, in front of a window, or in a greenhouse). For artificial lighting, prefer high-output lamps such as HPS, MH bulbs, agricultural neon lights, or horticultural LED.

- Temperature and Hardiness:

It grows very well when temperatures vary between 15 and 35°C; below this range, the shamanic shrub grows more slowly. It is a non-hardy plant that cannot withstand freezing temperatures. Remember to bring the plant indoors before the winter season.

- Reproduction and Propagation:

The "Leaf of the Gods" can be reproduced by sowing seeds, but also via "smothered" cuttings (high humidity). Cut a piece of woody stem and plant it in a mixture of sand and potting soil during the summer period.

- Pests and Diseases:

It is not very susceptible to diseases, though some powdery mildew may occasionally appear on the foliage in summer. Regarding pests, a few whiteflies or spider mites may appear under the leaves.