Asteraceae
Toothache plant: Edible Plant
Acmella oleracea
Cultivate in full sun or partial shade in a hot and humid climate, using light, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Keep the soil consistently moist without waterlogging, and protect from temperatures below 59 °F (15 °C).
Every 3 days
Bright indirect
15° - 35°C
70% - 95%
Categories
What is Toothache plant?
Toothache plant (Acmella oleracea) is a easy-care plant from the Asteraceae family. Jambu (Acmella oleracea) is an herb from the Asteraceae family, typical of the Amazon region and widely used in Pará cuisine. Its leaves and yellow flowers cause a tingling and numbing sensation in the mouth due to the presence of spilanthol.
Toothache plant grows up to 40cm, spread of 60cm, watering every 3 days, 15°C – 35°C, 70–95% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Toothache plant tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Toothache plant is safe to keep around pets. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 7 days.
How to Care for Toothache plant?
TLDR: Toothache plant needs Bright indirect, watering every 3 days, and temperatures between 15-35°C with 70-95% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Toothache plant?
Water frequently, especially during hot and dry periods, keeping the soil moist but never soggy.
How Much Light Does Toothache plant Need?
Prefers full sun, with at least 4 to 6 hours of direct light per day, though it tolerates partial shade.
What Is the Best Soil for Toothache plant?
Use light, well-drained soil rich in organic matter, with a pH between 5.8 and 6.5.
What Pot Should You Use for Toothache plant?
A pot with drainage holes and good depth to maintain moisture without waterlogging.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 15 days
Misting
Every 1 days
Rotate
Every 7 days
Repot
Every 180 days
What Is Toothache plant and Where Does It Come From?
Jambu (Acmella oleracea) is an herb from the Asteraceae family, typical of the Amazon region and widely used in Pará cuisine. Its leaves and yellow flowers cause a tingling and numbing sensation in the mouth due to the presence of spilanthol.
How Big Does Toothache plant Grow?
TLDR: Toothache plant can reach up to 40cm tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
40cm
Spread
60cm
Growth rate
Fast
Foliage
Evergreen
Plant Uses
Edible
Can be consumed
Medicinal
Medicinal properties
Medicinal Uses
- Traditional use for toothache relief
- Traditional use as a local anesthetic for the mouth and throat
Culinary Uses
- Seasoning for tacacá and duck in tucupi sauce
- Leaves and flowers used in salads and regional dishes
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Toothache plant?
TLDR: Toothache plant is susceptible to 6 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects (1/16 to 1/8 inch long) that feed by sucking nutrient-rich sap from plants. They reproduce rapidly and can quickly weaken plants, causing distorted growth and transmitting plant viruses. Aphids come in various colors including green, black, red, yellow, brown, and gray. They secrete honeydew, a sticky substance that attracts ants and encourages sooty mold growth.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects covered with a white, waxy, cottony material. They are common pests of houseplants and outdoor plants in mild climates. These sap-sucking insects feed on plant tissue, causing damage, stunted growth, and can lead to plant death if left untreated. They produce sticky honeydew which attracts sooty mold.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids (less than 1/20 inch long) related to spiders and ticks that feed on plant sap. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and can cause significant damage to ornamental and vegetable plants. During severe infestations, crop losses can reach 14% or higher as these pests disrupt vital plant processes including photosynthesis, carbon dioxide absorption, and transpiration.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small, soft-bodied, winged insects closely related to aphids and mealybugs. They are moth-like in appearance, about 1/16 inch long, triangular in shape, and gray-white in color. These sap-sucking pests feed on plant tissue, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and wilting. They also excrete honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes sooty mold growth. Whiteflies can transmit serious plant viruses.
Meaning & Symbolism
An emblematic plant of the cuisine and culture of Pará, associated with Amazonian traditions.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | ✓ |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | ✓ |
| Cushion Bush | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
