yerba de la pastora, shepherd’s herb

At maturity, this species reaches approximately 1 to 2 feet tall, presenting opposite, ovate to lanceolate leaves, aromatic when crushed along with small, white to lavender flowers in dense clusters, followed by small, nut-like seeds. These features are supported by a reliable fibrous root system, ensuring stability and sustained growth.

Native to Central America and parts of South America, yerba de la pastora, shepherd’s herb thrives in tropical and subtropical regions, often found in wet, lowland areas at elevations around sea level to 1,500 meters. Best suited for USDA Hardiness Zone 9-11. 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 yerba de la pastora, shepherd’s herb, This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and flourishes in well-draining loamy or sandy soil with a soil pH of about 6.0 to 7.5.

yerba de la pastora, shepherd’s herb needs watering,moderate, do not let soil dry out completely, guided by PlantPlants app, You can get plants daily watering schedule. to maintain prefers consistently moist soil, ensure steady hydration. Applying water through regular watering to maintain soil moisture supports even distribution and helps prevent overwatering or dryness.

yerba de la pastora, shepherd’s herb performs best within 50 F to 95 F (10 C to 35 C). Its ideal growth occurs at around 70 F to 85 F (21 C to 29 C), though it tolerates ranges from 45 F to 100 F (7 C to 38 C). Additionally, maintaining moderate to high humidity encourages healthy foliage and overall plant vigor.

Feeding with balanced, all-purpose fertilizer at the recommended Seasonal Application Frequency on PlantPlants App keeps nutrients balanced. Incorporating 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. early spring before new growth for remove dead or damaged stems, and pinch back for bushier growth tidies its appearance, while every 2-3 years may be necessary as it grows, requiring a increase pot size by 1-2 inches in diameter increase and a fresh 1 part potting soil, 1 part perlite for drainage. for Staking or Support. generally no staking required.

During does not typically undergo complete dormancy, growth may slow and some evergreen; leaves remain green year-round can occur. For those looking to propagate, consider seed propagation and cuttings and provide warm temperatures, consistent moisture when starting from seed. If using cuttings, follow take 4-6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, place in moist soil, maintain humidity until rooted to ensure successful rooting and healthy new plants.

our free plant identify and care app PlantPlants can help you diagnosisyerba de la pastora, shepherd’s herb problems.Though generally robust, keep watch for aphids, spider mites and remain vigilant against powdery mildew, root rot (if overwatered). Implementing good air circulation, avoid overhead watering and applying insecticidal soap for pests, adjust watering for diseases when issues arise will help sustain the plant thriving.

This plant pairs nicely with other herbs such as basil and rosemary and shows may suppress growth of some weeds, making it a flexible choice for various used in herb gardens or as ground cover.

the Edible Parts: leaves and young shoots. Toxicty of yerba de la pastora, shepherd’s herb, generally safe; however, excessive consumption may cause digestive issues. learning about its can be harvested year-round; pick leaves as needed, used in teas, salads, and traditional medicine, and rich in antioxidants and flavor compounds can be intriguing for culinary explorers. Some traditions highlight its traditionally used to treat digestive issues and promote appetite or note its valued in traditional healing and local cuisines.

With an not listed, proper cultivation in home gardens to prevent overharvesting from wild stands