Coleus amboinicus, Patta Ajwain- Plant

Description

Also known as Mother of herbs. It is a semi-succulent perennial plant in the family Lamiaceae With pungent oregano-like flavor and odor. Coleus amboinicus grows up to 1 m (3.3 ft) tall. The stem is fleshy and either with long rigid hairs (hispidly villous) or densely covered with soft, short and erect hairs. Leaf margins are coarsely crenate to dentate-crenate except in the base. Aroma of the leaves can be described as a pungent combination of the aromas of oregano, thyme, and turpentine. The taste of the leaves is described as being similar to the one of oregano, but with a sharp mint-like flavor.

This herb is used as a substitute for oregano to mask the strong odors and flavors of fish, mutton, and goat.

Fresh leaves are used to scent laundry and hair.

Sunlight:

• Provide about four to six hours of sunlight every day, preferably in the morning.
• Can be grown in partial sunlight indoors but with bright indirect sunlight.

Soil:

• Sandy well-drained soil

Watering

• Ajawain doesn’t need quite as much water as most herbs.
• As the amount of watering depends on many variables, just water when the soil feels dry to the touch.

 Don’ts

• Do not over water the plant especially when pot does not have drainage holes.
• keep away from the AC Vents.
• Do not apply water on plant leaves.

Initial care for 1-2 weeks after receiving plant at your location.

• Check the moisture in the soil before watering it.
• Poke your finger into the soil, if dry then apply water.
• Keep the plant in indirect light.
• Do not repot immediately after receiving it.