Overview
Dorstenia contrajerva is a plant with a succulent, caudex-forming habit in the genus Dorstenia, part of the Moraceae family, with green, non-succulent leaves foliage. Dorstenia contrajerva grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include indoor plant and conservatory.
About
Dorstenia contrajerva is a plant species in the family Moraceae. It is native to northern South America and Central America, and is cultivated elsewhere. The species name "contrajerva" is the Latinized form of the plant's Spanish name, "contrahierba", a name for plants used for treating poisoning and venomous bites and stings, and for which its rootstocks are used in folk medicine (as contrayerva). It is the type species of the Dorstenia genus and was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. In the garden it prefers full sun and loam soil. In UK gardens it needs subtropical warmth and glass protection in the UK (RHS H1b). Suggested uses include indoor plant and conservatory. It tolerates neutral soils, well-drained conditions and south-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil in a suitable position. Water during establishment.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Dorstenia contrajerva
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Dorstenia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Dorstenia contrajerva size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Succulent, caudex-forming
- Foliage
- Green, non-succulent leaves
- Suggested uses
- Indoor plant, conservatory
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Dorstenia contrajerva
- Propagation
- Seed, cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Low
- Disease resistance
- Low
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Dorstenia contrajerva?
Dorstenia contrajerva prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Dorstenia contrajerva need?
Dorstenia contrajerva grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Dorstenia contrajerva hardy in the UK?
Dorstenia contrajerva has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Dorstenia contrajerva?
Seed, cuttings.
