In Asia, the immortality herb (Gynostemma pentaphyllum), which is sold under the name Jiaogulan, is very popular. In this country too, more and more gardeners are growing the strong climbing plant. The care is not complicated and you get a very decorative ornamental plant for the terrace or balcony.
How to care for Immortality Herb (Jiaogulan)?
Caring for the immortality herb (Jiaogulan) includes regular watering without waterlogging, occasional fertilizing, optional pruning, checking the space available in the pot and winter protection in the bucket. Pests and diseases are rare and usually only occur when watering is incorrect.
Can immortality herb be grown in a pot?
Immortality herb can be grown directly in the garden bed. However, it is easier to grow the plant in a pot.
As it forms very long tendrils, it needs a climbing aid if you grow it on the balcony or terrace.
How to water immortality herb?
The soil should always be slightly moist without causing waterlogging. Watering is usually not necessary in the garden. Care for immortality herb in the pot, water regularly in summer and only so that in winter the substrate does not dry out completely.
Is fertilization necessary?
Opinions differ as to whether fertilization is necessary. In the garden, it is certainly enough if you occasionally add some mature compost. Plants grown in pots should be supplied with sticks (€6.00 on Amazon) or slow-release fertilizer.
Is immortality herb cut?
You don't have to cut the immortality herb. If the tendrils become too long, you can shorten them in the leaf axils.
Do you need to repot immortality herb?
Immortality herb grows in winter. After the winter break, you should check whether the plant still has enough space. If necessary, take them out of the pot, shake off the old substrate and place them in a slightly larger pot filled with fresh soil.
After repotting, do not fertilize the plant for several weeks!
What diseases and pests occur?
Diseases only occur when the substrate is too moist or too dry.
Pests are very rare. Watch out for aphids.
How to care for immortality herb in winter?
Immortality herb is considered hardy. The plant grows in autumn and sprouts again in spring. Winter protection is not absolutely necessary. But it won't do any harm if you cover the planting site with some leaves or brushwood.
You should overwinter immortality herbs kept in a pot in a frost-free location.
Tip
Immortality herb is very easy to propagate yourself. Propagation takes place via cuttings, sinkers or by separating rhizomes. Sowing, on the other hand, is difficult and often doesn't work.
