Lamiaceae
Pignut: Aromatic Plant
Mesosphaerum suaveolens
An extremely resilient plant that prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It requires little maintenance beyond growth control.
Every 3 days
Direct sun
15° - 38°C
40% - 90%
Categories
What is Pignut?
Pignut (Mesosphaerum suaveolens) is a easy-care plant from the Lamiaceae family. Mesosphaerum suaveolens, commonly known as Pignut or Wild Spikenard, is a robust and erect aromatic herb that emits a strong minty odor when crushed. Native to the tropical Americas, it has spread to various regions worldwide, frequently found in pastures and disturbed areas. Its leaves are oval and...
Pignut grows up to 2.0m, spread of 100cm, watering every 3 days, 15°C – 38°C, 40–90% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and not safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Pignut tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Without precautions, ingestion can cause irritation in pets. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs.
How to Care for Pignut?
TLDR: Pignut needs Direct sun, watering every 3 days, and temperatures between 15-38°C with 40-90% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Pignut?
Water when the top of the soil is dry. It is moderately drought-tolerant once established.
How Much Light Does Pignut Need?
Requires direct sun exposure for at least 6 hours daily to develop its characteristic aroma.
What Is the Best Soil for Pignut?
Adapts to poor soils but prefers sandy or slightly loamy soils that do not retain excess water.
What Pot Should You Use for Pignut?
Prefers direct planting in the ground but adapts to large terracotta pots with excellent drainage.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 60 days
What Is Pignut and Where Does It Come From?
Mesosphaerum suaveolens, commonly known as Pignut or Wild Spikenard, is a robust and erect aromatic herb that emits a strong minty odor when crushed. Native to the tropical Americas, it has spread to various regions worldwide, frequently found in pastures and disturbed areas. Its leaves are oval and serrated, and its small flowers range from blue to purple.
How to Propagate Pignut?
Sowing
- Seeds germinate very easily and can become invasive if not controlled.
- 1 Soil Preparation
Prepare a seedbed with light, well-drained soil.
- 2 Sowing
Scatter the seeds on the surface and cover lightly with a thin layer of soil.
- 3 Irrigation
Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, until germination occurs.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Pignut Grow?
TLDR: Pignut can reach up to 2.0m tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
2.0m
Spread
1.0m
Growth rate
Fast
Foliage
Evergreen
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Medicinal
Medicinal properties
Aromatic
Pleasant fragrance
Medicinal Uses
- Treatment of respiratory issues
- Antifungal action
- Relief of abdominal pain
- Insect repellent properties
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
Associated with folk healing and spiritual protection in various Brazilian rural cultures.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | ✓ |
| Iberian Houseleek | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | ✓ |
