Patchouli
- botanical name: Pogostemon heyneanus
- annual
- height 10-12″
- spacing 12-15″ apart
- partial shade, shade tolerant
- average-moist, well-drained soil
- flower color white
- uses in garden: great in containers, fragrant, ground cover
- insect repellent
*Please note: We accept plant orders at any time of the year and if you prefer to place an order outside our regular shipping months of April-May, ordering is still easy. “Why we only ship in April and May”
Due to the nature of shipping live plants, when you place an order, we will simply hold your order and ship it at the proper time for your zone, when weather permits in April 2014. Seed packets are shipped year round through USPS.
For more information see our “Ordering and Shipping Policy.”
Patchouli is certainly most admired for its aromatic properties; it is found not only in incense but also in essential oils and perfume. A good nickname for Patchouli would be ‘the hippie herb.’ Walk into any incense store and you’ll recognize the heavy, peppery aura of this plant. The herb has many mystical associations, in part because of the soothing, euphoric effect of its scent but also because it originated in the Far East and has been used in Asian medicines for centuries. It has often been listed among other so-called aphrodisiacs.
Patchouli is an insect repellent; rubbing it on the skin not only keeps away the bugs but also has a refreshing effect. It has been used to treat a variety of skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, hemorrhoids, and general irritation.
Patchouli is one of the few herbs that needs partial shade. It grows well in warm to tropical climates and thrives in hot weather but not direct sunlight. Cut back occasionally. Water regularly, but do not over water. Patchouli prefers evenly moist soil. For best results do not let the soil dry out between watering. If a Patchouli plant withers due to lack of watering, it will recover well and quickly after it has been watered. The seed-bearing flowers are very fragrant and bloom in late fall. The tiny seeds may be harvested for planting, but they are very delicate and easily crushed.
Sowing Instructions:
This plant is best when grown from soft herbacous cuttings. Cuttings can be rooted in water or place in fertile, well-drained soil misting lightly until well-rooted.
To harvest: allow seedheads to dry on plants; remove and collect seeds.
