Dysphania burkartii
Care, watering, light and tips for Dysphania burkartii on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Amaranthaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Dysphania burkartii
Dysphania burkartii, commonly known as erva-santa-maria, is an annual herb from the Amaranthaceae family, prized for its medicinal properties and aromatic foliage. It features branched stems and deep green, lance-shaped leaves, often with a reddish hue in full sun conditions. It is ideal for medicinal gardens, low-maintenance landscapes, or as an aromatic potted plant.
Native range
South America, particularly Argentina and Uruguay.
Care tips
It thrives in full sun exposure for robust growth and a higher concentration of its aromatic compounds. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogging, to which it is sensitive. Use a well-draining substrate, preferably sandy or sandy-loam. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can reduce the production of its essential oils.
How to save a dying Dysphania burkartii
- Warning signs
- Pale, yellowing or spotted leaves, soft and drooping stems, stunted growth. Indicates stress from over/underwatering or nutrients.
- First aid
- Check drainage and substrate moisture. If waterlogged, aerate roots. If dry, water deeply. Consider mild fertilizer if none applied.
- What kills it
- Constant waterlogging is fatal for epazote, rotting its roots. Also extreme cold and frost.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. Good drainage and proper watering are key. It can re-sprout if the main stem isn't fully rotted.