Green Chiretta · Andrographis paniculata
Also known as: Green Chiretta, King of Bitters, Kalmegh
Grow in full sun to partial shade in moist but well-drained soil. Tolerant of a range of soil types but prefers loam or sandy loam with neutral to acidic pH. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells; avoid waterlogging. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during the growing season. In cool temperate regions, treat as an annual or overwinter indoors in a frost-free greenhouse. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Sow seeds in spring at 20–25°C, either directly outdoors after frost risk has passed or indoors in seed trays. Germination usually occurs within 1–2 weeks. Alternatively, take softwood cuttings in summer; root in a propagator with bottom heat at 18–21°C. Seeds can also be collected from mature capsules in autumn.
