Anamu (Petiveria alliacea)
Anamu (Petiveria alliaceae) also known as Guinea Hen Weed or Garlic Weed, is a 4-foot-high, herbaceous perennial shrub, native to the Amazon rainforests and naturalized over the southern U.S., Central and South America, and the Caribbean. It is an attractive plant with alternate, leathery, dark green leaves and gently arching spikes of tiny white flowers that bloom in the winter. Its leaves, and especially its roots, emit a strong garlic odor when crushed and can be harvested year-round.
Anamu is used in medicines and magic rituals in the areas where it is grown. Indigenous peoples in Central and South America and urban herbalists use the leaves and roots as an anti-inflammatory and pain reducer, for coughs, colds, and flu, for digestive ailments, fever, cancer prevention, and diabetes treatment. Because of its strong odor, Anamu is also used as an insecticide and bat repellant.
This shrub is deep-rooted and easy to grow. It prefers moist, humid conditions and can grow in a variety of soil types and environments, including disturbed areas and coastal plains. It is hardy to USDA zone 9 to 11 but can be overwintered in colder regions and grown as a container plant.
Plant Type:
Perennial Tropical/Subtropical Evergreen Herb, Shrub
Harvest Season:
Year-round
Mature Size:
Up to 4 ft tall and wide
Soil & Moisture:
Anamu is native to tropical rainforests and lobes moist, rich, well-draining soil. Loves moisture and humidity, but is also drought tolerant once established and grows amazingly in subtropical climates as well as in containers.
Light Requirements:
Part Shade, Shade
Self-Fertile:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Medium
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Can be grown as an annual in colder climates or over-wintered indoors.
Our Anamu is grown from seed or cutting and mature enough for harvest capabilities within 1-2 growing seasons.
