Andrographis paniculata aka Creat

Andrographis paniculata is a bitter herb in the Acanthaceae family. Its names include green chireta, nilavembu, and king of bitters. It comes from the Indian subcontinent and grows in tropical climates. Growers raise it in many warm parts of the world. It has escaped gardens and farms in several tropical regions. Wild plants grow beside roads, in fields, and on waste ground. They also grow in village groves and monsoon forests.

The plant has an upright form and grows fast. Garden plants reach about 2.6 feet (0.8 metres) tall. Their spread is about 1 foot (0.3 metres). Some plants reach 3.9 feet (1.2 metres) in height. Sources differ on its life span. Kew lists it as an annual; other references call it perennial. All parts have a strong bitter taste. Bees and butterflies pollinate its flowers. It also draws wildlife, though the sources give few details.

Light shade suits this plant best, but it accepts other light levels. It can grow in deeper shade or more sun. Trials found the best growth under 20 percent shade. It prefers moist soil that drains well. Sand, loam, and clay can all support it. It also grows in poor soil across a broad pH range. Warm days of 20–30°C suit it best. It is frost tender, with a listed USDA range of 10–12. Its native climate has a dry season, but cultivation sources favour ample rain.

People grow green chireta for medicine and sometimes for display. It also suits containers. Traditional uses span India, Southeast Asia, Central America, and the Caribbean. These uses include remedies for fever and stomach complaints. Researchers have found several active compounds in the plant. Such findings do not establish that home-made remedies are safe. PFAF reports that people sometimes mix the leaves with other vegetables. Useful Tropical Plants lists no known edible uses or hazards. These records do not establish safety for people or pets.

Leaf extracts have shown effects on several crop pests. Reported effects include reduced feeding and egg laying. This does not show that the living plant resists pests. Its ability to escape cultivation gives it some weed potential. Growers can raise it from seed or stem cuttings. PFAF describes soaking seeds for a day before sowing.