Spreading Hogweed, Tarvine, Punarnava (though this name is also used for other Boerhavia species)
Boerhavia diffusa
🌿 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
Leaves can be cooked and eaten as a leafy green, though they have a slightly bitter taste. The roots possess medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant. It's a good ground cover plant and soil binder, especially in disturbed areas. It attracts pollinators. No notable cultivars are specifically used in permaculture.
Permapeople description
Boerhavia diffusa, commonly known as Tar Vine, is a sprawling perennial herb native to tropical and subtropical regions. It is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine.
Botanical description
Boerhavia diffusa is a prostrate, perennial herb with a long, slender taproot. Stems are slender, branching, and can spread widely. Leaves are opposite, ovate to suborbicular, usually unequal in size at each node, and often have a whitish bloom on the underside. Flowers are small, pink or reddish, and occur in small clusters in axillary panicles. The fruit is a small, ribbed, club-shaped anthocarp containing a single seed. It is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions.
Companion planting
Generally considered a beneficial companion plant due to its ground covering nature and ability to attract pollinators. No specific companion planting recommendations or antagonisms are widely documented, but careful observation for any allelopathic effects is always advisable.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily by seed. Stem cuttings can also be rooted, though less reliably. Root division is possible but less practical due to the plant's growth habit.
History and traditions
Historically, Boerhavia diffusa has been highly valued in Ayurvedic medicine, where it is known as Punarnava, meaning 'that which renews the body.' It is traditionally used as a remedy for kidney problems, liver disorders, edema, and anemia. Different cultures have also employed it for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Usage calendar
Flowering typically occurs during the warmer months, depending on the specific climate. Harvesting of leaves can occur throughout the growing season. Seed collection follows flowering. Planting is best done in the spring after the last frost.