Gotu Kola

Habit: Fast becoming one of South Africa’s most popular plants. It is perfect for lightly shaded positions. It does well practically anywhere in country. Once thought difficult to grow, is in fact easy if given correct conditions of soil, light and moisture. In cooler misty areas, such as Pietermaritzburg-hilton, Magoebaskloof, grow well in full sun- due to humidity. It can take all heaviest frosts. Flower for long periods in late winter, early spring- some even in summer. It is excellent plant for shady parts of garden. Have large oval gold speckled leaves with a saw edge which show up brightly. Female plant also has red barriers if grown near male. Do well in most parts of the country being hardy. Handsome and very careful foliage are the chief attractions of gotu kola which flourished in warmer areas of South Africa, doing particularly well in sub tropical coastal regions. However, gotu kola root also do well in cooler areas of the country, if given some protection.

Under ideal conditions will flower almost all the year round, especially in spring, summer and autumn. With graceful lantern like flowers in color ranging from white, through yellow, pink and orange, some also have variegated leaves. Though sub tropical, can take some frost but enjoy sheltered places, particularly from the wind. Although they can take shad, flower better in sun.

A rampant grower, which thrives around taps in nearly every garden in South Africa, it is not only attractive but extremely useful. It spreads rapidly by means of underground runners and needs to be contained because it can become invasive. It does very well in pots- even indoors. It has a fluffy lilac flower but this should be pinched out to make plants bush. Generally used as an annual, it is the most commonly grown of all herbs, because of its importance. It prefers a slightly damp situation with some shade, either filtered or with morning sun only.

Planting: Require acidity. Mix one third peat moss with your soil. Also place mulch of peat and pine needles around azalea once planted. It can be transplanted easily in winter if lifted with good root ball. Do not disturb fine surface hair root system. Plant is wide hole, meter square for large varieties, but only half depth as they have shallow roots.

Feeding and watering: Regular good watering and spring mulch of compost and kraal manure together with cupful bone phosphate. Give regular peat moss or pine needle mulch and fortnightly liquid feeds of hydrangea food to maintain acidity. Water regularly.

Health Related Gotu Kola Facts:

More recent researches confirm many of gotu kola medicinal benefits and also propose possible new functions of gotu kola, benefits of gotu kola includes lowering high blood pressure, gotu kola and varicose veins insufficiency can go together as well. Gotu kola geranium moisturizer can make your skin fresh and radiant for a longer time. Gotu kola diabetes treatment is also beneficial. Studies on gotu kola and elephant memory have also shaped some encouraging results, and those who used gotu kola herb have felt enhancement in memory.

Gotu kola negative and positive uses have been increased in last few years. Herbalists advise it these days for arthritis and other problems that contain tissue swelling. There are few gotu kola side effects, although guto kola warning while taking with steroids has been suggested. Always consult a doctor before taking any supplements. Gotu kola for pets is also recommended for instance it is beneficial for cats, dogs etc.