Description
Orthosiphon aristatus. 3.7L coir pot.
Native to some tropic regions of Australia and South East Asia, as well as East India, China, Sumatra and Indonesia, this fast-growing, evergreen perennial herb can grow to around 1.5m high by 90cm wide, depending on conditions.
The flowers are large and eye-catching, and appear in late summer to autumn. They are fantastic for attracting bees, birds and butterflies to the garden. The plant gets its name from the long, elegant stamens that protrude from each flower, resembling the whiskers of a cat. During cold winters it may be partially deciduous, with some leaves turning yellow and dropping before growing back in spring.
Cat’s Whiskers is used to make Java Tea and Kidney Tea, which is highly popular in Asia, Europe and India. The tea is made by using the parts of the plant that are above the ground, as the other parts can be toxic. The leaves should only be harvested when the plant is in bloom.
It is used for treating mild kidney symptoms as it can assist in flushing out the bladder. It is also believed to be anti-hypertensive, diuretic, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory.
The plant enjoys a part shade position in free-draining, fertile soil, with regular watering. It can handle a more full sun position if given some protection from the hot afternoon summer sun.
