Wormseed, Old Man’s Pepper

At maturity, this species reaches approximately 2-3 feet (60-90 cm), presenting Triangular, lobed leaves, green to gray-green in color along with Small, greenish-yellow flowers arranged in cluster-like spikes, followed by Tiny, dark brown seeds within a capsule. These features are supported by a reliable Fibrous root system, ensuring stability and sustained growth.

Native to Native to Central and South America, Wormseed, Old Man’s Pepper thrives in Grows in disturbed areas, grasslands, and open fields at elevations around Sea level to low elevations (up to 1500 meters). Best suited for USDA Hardiness Zone 3 to 10. Whether grown indoor, in a curated garden or a more natural setting, its ecological requirements help maintain its vigor over time.

You can use our free plant identify app PlantPlants to chose the best spot for Wormseed, Old Man’s Pepper, This plant prefers Full sun to partial shade and flourishes in Prefers sandy or loamy soils with a soil pH of about 6.0 to 7.5.

Wormseed, Old Man’s Pepper needs watering,Moderate, requires regular watering, guided by PlantPlants app, You can get plants daily watering schedule. to maintain Tolerates moist but well-drained soils, ensure steady hydration. Applying water through Ground watering preferred supports even distribution and helps prevent overwatering or dryness.

Wormseed, Old Man’s Pepper performs best within 60 F to 80 F (15 C to 27 C). Its ideal growth occurs at around 70 F (21 C), though it tolerates ranges from 40 F 95 F (4 C 35 C). Additionally, maintaining Moderate to high humidity encourages healthy foliage and overall plant vigor.

Feeding with Balanced liquid fertilizer at the recommended Seasonal Application Frequency on PlantPlants App keeps nutrients balanced. Incorporating Organic compost or well-rotted manure enhances soil structure and fertility, while staying alert to Yellowing leaves, stunted growth helps you adjust care as needed to maintain optimal plant health.

Regular attention ensures this plant’s beauty and longevity. Late spring after flowering for Pinching back spent flowers and damaged leaves tidies its appearance, while Every 2-3 years or as needed may be necessary as it grows, requiring a Increase by 1-2 inches in diameter increase and a fresh Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. for Staking or Support. Generally not required unless in windy areas.

During Late fall to early spring, growth may slow and some Leaves may yellow and die back in fall can occur. For those looking to propagate, consider Seed propagation or cuttings and provide Warm soil (70 F+) and light exposure when starting from seed. If using cuttings, follow Take 4-6 inch cuttings and place in water until roots develop to ensure successful rooting and healthy new plants.

our free plant identify and care app PlantPlants can help you diagnosisWormseed, Old Man’s Pepper problems.Though generally robust, keep watch for Aphids, spider mites and remain vigilant against Root rot, powdery mildew. Implementing Ensure good air circulation; avoid overwatering and applying Insecticidal soap for pests; remove affected parts for diseases when issues arise will help sustain the plant thriving.

This plant pairs nicely with Marigolds, garlic and shows Can inhibit growth of some nearby plants, making it a flexible choice for various Edges of gardens, medicinal gardens.

the Edible Parts: Leaves (when cooked), seeds (when ground). Toxicty of Wormseed, Old Man’s Pepper, Mildly toxic if consumed in large quantities; should be used cautiously. learning about its Late summer; leaves harvested before flowering, Used in traditional medicine; some culinary uses in small quantities, and Contains essential oils, vitamins A and C can be intriguing for culinary explorers. Some traditions highlight its Traditionally used for its anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) properties or note its Used in folk medicine in various cultures for digestive issues.

With an Not evaluated, proper Cultivation in gardens to promote survival and avoid overharvesting