Overview
Justicia adhatoda is a bushy conservatory greenhouse in the genus Justicia, part of the Acanthaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Justicia adhatoda grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include patio and container plants.
About
Justicia adhatoda commonly known in English as Malabar nut, adulsa, adhatoda, vasa, vasaka, is native to Asia. Adathoda means 'untouched by goats' in Tamil.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Justicia
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1a
Plant details
Justicia adhatoda size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Justicia adhatoda
- Propagation
- Seed, softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Glasshouse red spider mite, Glasshouse whitefly
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Justicia adhatoda?
Justicia adhatoda prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Justicia adhatoda need?
Justicia adhatoda grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
Is Justicia adhatoda hardy in the UK?
Justicia adhatoda has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Justicia adhatoda?
Seed, softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings.
More in the Justicia genus
- Justicia aconitiflora
- Justicia aurea
- Justicia californicachuparosa honeysuckle
- Justicia hyssopifolia
- Justicia lutea
- Justicia plumbaginifolia
- Justicia procumbens
- Justicia ventricosa
