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Gotu kola

Centella asiatica

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Gotu kola · Centella asiatica

Small round leaves creeping low on moist ground, familiar in cooling drinks.

Care and placement

Likes part shade to sun, moist to wet humus-rich soil at pH 5.5–7.0; spreads by runners so trim regularly; pick outer leaves.

Draft mature dimensions

Maximum height (cm): 15 cm · Maximum spread (cm): 60 cm

Things to consider

Gotu kola is eaten and drunk in many places; use only washed leaves from clean water and unsprayed plants. Do not use it long-term as medicine; this does not replace medical advice.

Unknown evidence does not mean safe. Decorative plants are not automatically edible.

Information is compiled from multiple reputable sources for reference. If you spot an error, please contact us so we can check and update it.

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How to grow and care for it

  1. Planting and pot

    Plant in part shade to sun in moist to wet, humus-rich, draining soil; mix in plenty of compost and mulch; space about 60 cm. A shallow pot or tray helps contain spread.

  2. Light

    Part shade to full sun in very moist soil; sources differ on shade — too much shade can invite pests.

  3. Watering

    Water often to keep soil moist to wet and mulch; extreme waterlogging causes root rot. Very high humidity may bring fungal disease.

  4. Feeding

    Generous compost at planting is enough. (The sources checked give no specific schedule.)

  5. Pruning

    Pinch or cut outer leaves, leaving inner ones to keep growing; trim runners regularly so it does not take over.

  6. Propagation

    Separate rooted runners in spring and replant at once in moist soil about 60 cm apart. Seed germinates slowly and erratically so division is preferred.

  7. Pests and common problems

    Spider mites, aphids and mealybugs; fungal disease if humidity is too high; root rot with extreme waterlogging.

  8. For a bigger harvest

    For plenty of leaves: constantly moist humus-rich soil, light shade, regular picking of outer leaves and trimming of runners for a steady supply of young leaves.