Incense Plant (Calomeria amaranthoides)

Incense Plant

Calomeria amaranthoides

Crushed leaves release warm spicy scent, a soft aromatic herbaceous perennial; common name: Incense Plant.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers full sun to partial shade; protect from harsh midday sun in hot temperate regions
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Watering Allow top 2–3 cm of soil to dry between waterings; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
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Temperature Tolerates light frosts down to 5°C; thrives in mild temperate daytime temperatures
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Lanceolate gray-green leaves with fuzzy undersides; aromatic when crushed
  • Flower: Small pale pink to white blooms in dense terminal clusters
  • Stem: Erect, branching stems covered in fine silvery hairs
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; reduce watering during extreme heat to avoid stress

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter

Composted coffee grounds tea:Use fully decomposed coffee grounds diluted 1:20 with water; apply as a root drench to avoid leaf burn
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower clusters to encourage extended blooming
  • Cut back stems by 50% in late winter to promote compact, bushy new growth
  • Remove yellowing or damaged foliage to maintain airflow and plant health
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Aromatic foliage for potpourri, garden border plantings, and container displays