Plantago ovata aka Ispaghul
Taxonomy
Common names
Ispaghul, Ispaghula, PsylliumHow to care for Ispaghul
Difficulty
With its straightforward care requirements, Ispaghul is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
Water
Ispaghul should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Ispaghul loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Ispaghul requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Ispaghula is always in the right place to thrive.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it is common for Ispaghul plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
Fertilizer
The Ispaghul should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the Ispaghul as it grows vertically.
Region of origin
Ispaghul’s native range is Europe - Mediterranean to E. Asia - India.
More info:
Wikipedia