Easily grown in containers, this tropical plant is known for the strong earthy scent of its leaves.
This non-edible herb has also been used as a traditional medicine in China, Malaysia, and Japan.
It might surprise you that patchouli is a member of the mint family.
While it shares fast growth with other members of the mint family, it struggles in too much sunlight.
In its native habitat, it grows as an understory plant.
The egg-shaped leaves and stems are aromatic when crushed.
The white flowers of patchouli have no particular scent.
Dig a hole that roughly matches the size of the pot.
Water it thoroughly, thenadd a layer of mulcharound the plant to retain moisture.
Allow the topsoil to dry before providing supplemental water.
Space plants 5 feet apart in either direction to allow for sufficient airflow.
Patchouli Care Tips
If the growing conditions are suitable, patchouli does not require much ongoing care.
Light
Outdoors, plant patchouli or place the pots in a location with dappled light.
Avoidfull sun exposure, especially during the hot afternoon hours.
Indoors, place the potted plant in a spot with bright indirect light near an east- or west-facing window.
ensure, however, not to overwater it.
During the winter dormancy, reduce watering but dont let the plant dry out completely.
It will struggle in hot and arid climates.
Move plants outside again in late spring or early summer when temperatures warm up again.
Feed potted plants with ahouseplant fertilizerat diluted strength about once a month.
Do not fertilize the plant during the winter.
Removing the flower buds as they appear also encourages more leaf growth.
Potting and Repotting Patchouli
Patchouli is a prime candidate for growing in a container.
Keep in mind that container plants need frequent watering, especially in warm weather.
If it progresses, it can lead to the entire leaf drying.
How to Propagate Patchouli
Patchouli ispropagated from seeds indoors.
Patchouli typically germinates within three weeks.
Once the seedlings emerge, place them in a warm spot with bright indirect light.
If there is not sufficient natural light, place agrow light3 to 4 feet away.
Water the seedlings regularly, they are exceptionally sensitive to dry soil.
Thin the seedlings and leave only the strongest in each pot.
Frequently Asked Questions
In ideal conditions, the leaves grow up to 4 inches long.
They can be used for potpourri or incense.
Harvest the larger leaves on dry mornings.
Dry them by spreading them in a single layer on a screen.
Set them in a well-ventilated space where they are protected from direct sunlight.
Let the leaves dry completely before crushing them for potpourri or grinding them for incense.
Neither the flowers nor the leaves have the typical patchouli smell when on the plant.
The leaves only give off a fragrance when you rub them between your fingers.
