Mauka
Mirabilis expansa
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Pl. 0924 — Mirabilis expansa
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IOverview
Overview
Mauka, scientifically known as Mirabilis expansa, is a perennial plant native to the arid regions of Bolivia, Chile Central, and Chile North, extending into Peru. This full-sun lover thrives in moist conditions with light, medium, or heavy soil types. Standing up to 1 meter tall, Mauka is notable for its edible leaves and roots, making it a valuable resource in local cuisines. Its distinctive feature lies in its adaptability to various soil types while maintaining a consistent presence in the landscape due to its perennial nature.
Quick answers
What is Mauka?
Mauka, scientifically known as Mirabilis expansa, is a perennial plant native to the arid regions of Bolivia, Chile Central, and Chile North, extending into Peru. This full-sun lover thrives in moist conditions with light, medium, or heavy soil types.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Mauka thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial grows up to 1 meter tall and is hardy in temperate regions. Propagate via seeds or division. Harvest its edible leaves and roots for culinary use.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Mauka for the first time
8steps
Start with Mauka as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small plant or seeds, a trowel, and some compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the last frost has passed.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay types.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants into your garden bed or sow seeds directly where you want them to grow.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Ensure full sun exposure.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light watering during dry periods, especially in summer. Prune occasionally for shape and health.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Trim back any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth and a tidy appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Don't plant in heavy shade as it may stunt the plant's growth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: Drink
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native
Americas2 regions
native (2)BoliviaPeru
Broader regions
native:Chile Central, Chile North
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 092418d7-60dd-4fef-aac3-7b696ef0bb11
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