West Indin Chickweed
Drymaria cordata
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Pl. 5354 — Drymaria cordata
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IOverview
Overview
West Indian Chickweed, scientifically known as Drymaria cordata, is a hardy forb or herb that thrives in various climates across Central and South America, Africa, and parts of Asia. Native to regions including Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, and Colombia, it has also spread to countries like Kenya, Uganda, and Ethiopia. This plant prefers moist conditions with light to medium soil types and can grow up to 0.6 meters tall. Known for its edible leaves, West Indian Chickweed is a valuable addition to gardens or landscapes where it can be found in full sun to partial shade. Its adaptability makes it a versatile choice for both ornamental and culinary purposes.
Quick answers
What is West Indin Chickweed?
West Indian Chickweed, scientifically known as Drymaria cordata, is a hardy forb or herb that thrives in various climates across Central and South America, Africa, and parts of Asia. Native to regions including Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, and Colombia, it has also spread to countries like Kenya, Uganda, and Ethiopia.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
West Indian Chickweed thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It can be annual or perennial and grows up to 0.6 meters tall. Native to regions across Central and South America as well as parts of Africa, it is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, sow seeds directly where they will grow, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist. Harvest the leaves for culinary use throughout the growing season.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual, Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow West Indin Chickweed for the first time
8steps
Start with West Indian Chickweed as a simple, low-maintenance herb for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, small pots or garden soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light, medium, or heavy texture.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in moist soil; space plants about 30 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide light shade to prevent sunburn.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune plants lightly to encourage bushy growth; harvest leaves as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of West Indian Chickweed are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often used fresh in salads for their mild flavor. The plant is also sometimes steamed or boiled as a vegetable.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Americas10 regions
native (10)BelizeBoliviaColombiaCosta RicaEcuadorEl SalvadorFrench GuianaGuatemalaGuyanaHonduras
Africa7 regions
native (7)BurundiCameroonCôte d'IvoireEthiopiaGabonGuineaKenya
Broader regions
native:Brazil North, Brazil Northeast, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, Brazil West-Central, Cape Provinces, Central African Repu, Chile North, Congo, Galápagos, Gulf of Guinea Is., KwaZulu-Natal, Argentina Northwest
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 53544a67-6957-472a-9ce6-a158746abdff
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