Ipecac (Carapichea ipecacuanha)
Care, watering, light and tips for Ipecac on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Rubiaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Ipecac
Carapichea ipecacuanha, commonly known as ipecacuanha, is a small perennial plant from the Rubiaceae family, renowned for its roots historically used for medicinal purposes. It features slender stems and deep green, oval-shaped leaves that grow in opposite pairs. It is ideal for medicinal plant collections or as a botanical curiosity in shady tropical gardens, where its understated beauty can be appreciated.
Native range
Central and South America, from Nicaragua to Bolivia and Brazil
Care tips
It requires bright indirect light or partial shade; direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves. Keep the substrate consistently moist, but not waterlogged, ensuring good drainage. It prefers an organic-rich, slightly acidic, and well-aerated substrate. A common mistake is insufficient ambient humidity, so it benefits from high humidity and regular misting.
How to save a dying Ipecac
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, wilting leaves; soft or blackened stems. Soft, dark roots.
- First aid
- Repot into fresh, well-draining substrate. Remove damaged roots. Drastically reduce watering.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage. Does not tolerate waterlogging. Needs ambient humidity, not in soil.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if acted upon quickly. Recovery is slow but possible if damage isn't extensive.