Growing Guide: Anamu
Growing Tips
Plant Anamu in a warm location with well-draining soil and provide full sun to part shade. Keep the soil consistently moist while establishing, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Anamu thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and can be grown in containers in cooler areas. Harvest leaves as needed for traditional herbal preparations and allow plants to become well established before harvesting roots.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Petiveria alliacea |
| Common Names | Anamu, Guinea Hen Weed, Garlic Weed, Apacin, Gully Root, Mucura, Guinea, Tipi, Mapurite, Zorrillo, Verba de Mucura |
| Family | Phytolaccaceae |
| Origin | Tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, including the Caribbean, Central, and South America |
| Plant Type | Perennial Tropical/Subtropical Evergreen Herb, Shrub |
| Life Cycle | Perennial |
| Harvest Season | Year-round |
| Mature Size | Up to 4 ft. tall and wide |
| Soil & Moisture | Moist, rich, well-draining soil; loves moisture and humidity; drought tolerant once established; grows well in subtropical climates and 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 overwintered indoors |
| Propagation | Grown from seed or cuttings; mature enough for harvest within 1–2 growing seasons |
