Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) is a low-growing, perennial herb native to the warm, marshy wetlands of Asia. It is also known as Asiatic pennywort or Indian pennywort. Valued for centuries in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, it is used for supporting cognitive function and promoting wound healing. The fresh leaves are also a popular culinary ingredient in many Southeast Asian dishes. This guide focuses on the techniques required to successfully cultivate this versatile plant at home.
Establishing the Ideal Growing Environment
Successfully growing gotu kola requires replicating its native tropical and subtropical habitat, characterized by high moisture and warmth. The plant thrives in rich, loamy soil heavily amended with organic matter, such as compost. An ideal soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral, falling within the 5.5 to 7.0 range.
While gotu kola can tolerate full sun, it performs best in partial shade, especially in climates with intense afternoon heat. Morning sun followed by afternoon shade is the most favorable light condition, as strong, direct sun can cause the leaves to scorch or wilt. The plant is semi-aquatic, meaning the soil must remain consistently moist, almost wet, and it will not tolerate drying out.
Starting Gotu Kola From Cuttings or Seed
The most reliable method for establishing gotu kola is through stem cuttings or runners, which root quickly. To propagate, take a healthy 4- to 6-inch segment of a runner and make a clean cut just below a leaf node. Cuttings can be rooted in water or planted directly into moist, organic-rich soil, where roots will develop within a few weeks.
Starting the plant from seed is possible but often proves challenging due to variable germination rates. Seeds must be sown directly on the surface of the soil and lightly pressed in, as they require light to germinate. Maintaining a consistent soil temperature between 70 to 75°F and high humidity will improve sprouting chances, which can take several weeks or months. Established plants should be spaced at least 12 to 24 inches apart to accommodate their rapid, creeping spread.
Ongoing Care and Containment
Gotu kola is a fast-growing, creeping perennial that spreads aggressively via slender runners, making containment a primary consideration for garden cultivation. When planting directly into the ground, use a physical barrier or grow the herb in a sunken pot to prevent it from overtaking garden beds. Growing the plant in a broad, shallow container placed on a saucer to retain moisture offers the best solution for managing its spread.
Constant moisture is required for this herb; daily watering may be necessary in hot weather to prevent wilting and keep the soil saturated. While the soil needs to be consistently wet, proper drainage is necessary to prevent stagnant conditions that can lead to root rot. The plant benefits from nutrient-rich conditions, so incorporate well-rotted compost at planting time and feed with a diluted liquid organic fertilizer, such as fish emulsion, once a month during the active growing season.
Harvesting and Preservation
Leaves can be harvested continuously once the plant is well-established, usually two to six months after planting. Focus on selecting healthy, mature leaves, which are typically one to two inches in diameter. Harvest by snipping the leaves and stems close to the ground using clean scissors or shears.
Practice a selective harvest, removing no more than one-third of the foliage at any time to ensure rapid recovery. Regular trimming encourages the plant to produce new leaves, leading to a bushier growth habit. For culinary use, the leaves are best consumed fresh in salads or juices to retain their mild, earthy flavor. Excess leaves can be preserved by air-drying them in a cool, shaded, and well-ventilated location before storing them in an airtight container.