Stone breaker (Phyllanthus niruri)
Care, watering, light and tips for Stone breaker on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Phyllanthaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Stone breaker
Phyllanthus niruri, commonly known as Chanca Piedra or Gale of the Wind, is a small annual herbaceous plant native to tropical regions. Its slender, branching stems feature alternately arranged oval leaves, often bearing tiny flowers and fruits beneath the foliage, giving it a delicate and compact appearance. It is ideal for small pots, tropical rock gardens, or as ground cover in warm, humid climates.
Native range
Tropical regions of the Americas, including the Caribbean and southern Mexico.
Care tips
It prefers bright indirect light or partial shade, avoiding strong direct midday sun exposure. Keep the substrate consistently moist, but not waterlogged, especially during its active growing period. Use a well-draining, organically rich substrate, such as a universal potting mix with some perlite. A common mistake is allowing the substrate to dry out completely, which can lead to premature leaf drop and poor growth.
How to save a dying Stone breaker
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or wilting leaves, soft or rotting stem.
- First aid
- Remove damaged leaves, check drainage, reduce watering if soil is wet.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and lack of light; constantly soggy soil rots its roots.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted and excess moisture is corrected.