Toothache plant (Acmella oleracea)
Care, watering, light and tips for Toothache plant on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
About Toothache plant
Acmella oleracea, commonly known as "toothache plant" or "Spilanthes", is an annual herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family. It is characterized by its small yellow flowers with a reddish-brown center, which have an anesthetic and stimulating effect when chewed. It is ideal for urban gardens, pots, and as a border plant, adding an exotic touch and medicinal properties.
Native range
Tropical South America (Brazil, Peru, etc.)
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal flowering. Watering should be regular, keeping the substrate moist but not waterlogged, especially in warm climates. It requires fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Avoid extreme cold and frost, as it is sensitive to low temperatures.
How to save a dying Toothache plant
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or wilting leaves, soft or blackened stems. Can indicate overwatering or lack of light.
- First aid
- Remove damaged leaves, check substrate (should dry between waterings). Ensure bright indirect light.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage, quickly rotting its roots. Also insufficient light.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and you act quickly. It's quite resilient.