Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa)

Punarnava

Boerhavia diffusa

It spreads low and blooms tiny stars, a hardy ground cover. Herbaceous ground cover; common names: Punarnava, Spreading Hogweed.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers full sun to partial shade; tolerant of intense sunny conditions in arid regions
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; highly drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Thrives in warm to tropical temperatures; cannot tolerate frost or prolonged cold below 10°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Simple ovate to oblong leaves with uneven bases, covered in fine hairs.
  • Flower: Tiny pink to white star-shaped blooms in clustered axillary inflorescences.
  • Stem: Slender reddish-green branching stems that trail along the ground.
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Light diluted balanced feed once monthly. Skip fertilization in winter when growth slows

Eggshell powder topdressing:Sprinkle finely ground, dried eggshells on topsoil to boost soil calcium levels; avoid direct contact with plant stems to prevent irritation
Pruning
  • Trim back overgrown trailing stems to maintain a compact, tidy habit
  • Remove spent flower clusters to encourage continuous blooming through summer
  • Clear dead foliage in early spring to promote new growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No documented toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Traditional Ayurvedic medicinal plant; erosion control ground cover in arid landscapes