Description
Asthma Weed, Common spurge, Cats hair
Sanchezia is a genus of the plant family Acanthaceae. It is estimated to contain about 20 to 50 species. Members of this genus are shrubs, rarely small trees or herbs, occurring in the lowlands of tropical South and Central America.
Plant Specifications
| Common Name | Asthma Weed, Common spurge, Cats hair |
| Maximum Reachable Height | 3 or 4 feet |
| Flower Colour | Purplish to greenish |
| Bloom Time | June to September |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to grow |
Planting and care
Sanchezia grows in full sun as long as there is protection from noon-day sun. Partially shady areas produce healthier plants with less burning on the foliage. Temperatures must remain above 50 F. (10 C.). Sanchezia plants need high humidity but allow the surface of the soil to dry out before you irrigate again. Feed during the growing season with, teaspoon of plant food per gallon of water. The fast growing plants respond well to pruning, which can help keep it compact and diminutive enough for indoor use.
Sanchezia nobilis tricolor care
The only Sanchezia growing information you need to know is the best time to take cuttings. Take terminal end cuttings in spring when new foliage is forming. Pull off the lower leaves to make a stem and dip into rooting hormone or alternatively, suspend the cutting in a glass of water.
| Sunlight | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Watering | Dry to medium |
| Soil | Well drained soil |
| Temperature | 30 to 40 Degrees C |
| Fertilizer | Apply any organic fertilizer |
Sanchezia nobilis tricolor special feature
Borders and cottage gardens. Herb gardens. Good vertical accent. Grows well in poor soils and will grow well on dry, rocky slopes or scree.
Sanchezia nobilis tricolor uses
Ornamental Use:
- The plant is used for ornamental purpose
Medicinal Use:
- Asthma weed has traditionally been used in Asia to treat bronchitic asthma and laryngeal spasm, though in modern herbalism it is more used in the treatment of intestinal amoebic dysentery
- It should not be used without expert guidance, however, since large doses cause gastro-intestinal irritation, nausea and vomiting