Description
Gymnostachyum hirsutum (also called Hairy Rice Flower, among many other common names) is a species of flowering plant in the family Rubiaceae. It is a shrub or small tree, growing up to 6 m tall. It is native to China, India, and Southeast Asia. It is found in tropical and subtropical forests, scrub, and grasslands.
Uses & Benefits
Gymnostachyum hirsutum is used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating fever, diarrhoea, and skin diseases. It is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Gymnostachyum hirsutum has small, white flowers with yellow anthers. Its seeds are small, black and oval-shaped. Its seedlings are small, with oval-shaped leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Gymnostachyum hirsutum is a small, perennial herb native to South Africa. It is easy to propagate from seed or cuttings. For seed propagation, sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil lightly moist. For cuttings, take a cutting from the stem and let it dry out for a few days before planting it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil lightly moist and the cutting should root in a few weeks.