Prickly Chaff Flower, Devil's Horsewhip, Rough Chaff Flower, Chaff Flower
Achyranthes aspera
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Achyranthes aspera has several uses. Young leaves can be cooked and eaten as a pot herb. The plant also has a wide range of traditional medicinal uses, including as an anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and wound healer. In the garden, it can be used as a green manure or compost component, adding nutrients back into the soil. It may also attract beneficial insects.
Permapeople description
Achyranthes aspera is a species of plant in the family Amaranthaceae. It is native to tropical Asia.
Botanical description
Achyranthes aspera is an erect, perennial herb that grows up to 1-2 meters tall. The stem is usually quadrangular and often reddish or purplish. The leaves are opposite, simple, and elliptic-ovate, with entire margins. The inflorescence is a terminal or axillary spike, bearing small, green, bisexual flowers. The fruits are prickly, one-seeded utricles that adhere to clothing and fur, aiding in seed dispersal. The root system is fibrous.
Companion planting
There is limited information on specific companion planting associations for Achyranthes aspera. As a weedy species, it generally does not have strong companion planting preferences. However, its presence might attract beneficial insects, which could indirectly benefit nearby crops.
Propagation methods
Achyranthes aspera can be propagated primarily through seeds. Seeds should be sown directly into the ground or in pots. Stem cuttings can also be used, although this method may be less reliable. Root division is generally not practiced.
History and traditions
Achyranthes aspera has a long history of use in traditional medicine across various cultures. In Ayurveda, it is used to treat a wide range of ailments, including coughs, asthma, skin diseases, and digestive problems. It is also used in traditional African medicine for similar purposes. The plant holds cultural significance in some communities, often used in rituals and ceremonies.
Usage calendar
Flowering typically occurs during the summer and fall months (June to October). Seeds mature and can be collected in late fall and winter (October to January). Planting is best done in the spring (March to May) after the last frost. Pruning is usually not required, but dead or damaged stems can be removed at any time of year.