Tinospora cordifolia
Tinospora cordifolia
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Pl. 813E — Tinospora cordifolia
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IOverview
Overview
Tinospora cordifolia, commonly known as Indian devil's claw or heart-leaved moonseed, is a deciduous climbing shrub native to the tropical and subtropical regions of India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and some islands in the Andaman Sea and Nicobar Islands. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate dry to moist conditions, thriving in light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. It is hardy in zones 10-12 and can grow up to 15 meters tall. The leaves of Tinospora cordifolia are edible and have been used in traditional cuisine. This plant is also valued for its ornamental qualities due to its heart-shaped leaves and climbing nature, making it a popular choice for garden settings.
Quick answers
What is Tinospora cordifolia?
Tinospora cordifolia, commonly known as Indian devil's claw or heart-leaved moonseed, is a deciduous climbing shrub native to the tropical and subtropical regions of India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and some islands in the Andaman Sea and Nicobar Islands.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tinospora cordifolia thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but will grow better with moist conditions. This plant is hardy in temperate regions, specifically zones 10-12. For cultivation, it can reach a height of 15 meters and its edible parts include the leaves. Ensure the soil remains not too wet to prevent root rot. Regular watering during dry spells will help maintain healthy growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
15.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Tinospora cordifolia for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance approach to growing Tinospora cordifolia.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, potting soil, containers, and a trellis.
- 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 (sandy), medium, or heavy clay soils. Ensure containers are large enough for growth.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside. Transplant young plants when they have a few leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid waterlogging, and keep the soil moist but not wet.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and regular watering as needed. Prune occasionally for shape and health.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune regularly to maintain size and encourage new growth, focusing on older stems.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: Tea
Other uses:Weaving material
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
10 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
10 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 10 native
Asia6 regions
native (6)BangladeshIndiaMaldivesMyanmarSri LankaVietnam
Broader regions
native:Andaman Is., East Himalaya, Nicobar Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 813ebe82-9483-4a8f-906b-983272fd6fd7
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