Gymnema sylvestre — an easy houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Gymnema sylvestre

Gymnema Sylvestre

Updated · 13 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Gymnema sylvestre is a perennial woody vine native to Asia (including the Arabian Peninsula), Africa and Australia. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine. Common names include gymnema, Australian cowplant, and Periploca of the woods, and the Hindi term gurmar, which means "sugar destroyer".The leaves and extracts contain gymnemic acids, the major bioactive constituents that interact with taste receptors on the tongue to temporarily suppress the taste of sweetness.

A note from PlantMom

The Australian cowplant has strong resistance to disease and is generally not susceptible to illnesses. Regarding maintenance, this plant is fairly easy to care for. When grown outdoors it needs little watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller specimens, however, should be trimmed after they finish flowering. The Australian cowplant is appropriate for anyone who has an outdoor area, such as a garden or a deck, and does not demand extensive gardening experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Gymnema Sylvestre.

Light

Native to bright, sun-drenched habitats, the Australian cowplant is a tropical woody plant that flourishes in full sun yet can tolerate partial sun. It typically grows in open, well-lit locations with little shade.

Temperature

The Australian cowplant is native to climates where temperatures typically range from 68 to 100.4 °F (20 to 38 ℃). It thrives in this temperature range, although small adjustments may be necessary with seasonal changes.

Fertilizer

Fertilizing is essential for the care of the Australian cowplant. Regular feeding during the growing season helps preserve the energy required for its showy leaves and promotes overall growth. Failing to fertilize can lead to unhealthy leaves, reduced ornamental appeal, and stunted or weak growth that is prone to breaking.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Vine
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Gymnema
Family
Apocynaceae
Hardiness Zone
10-12
Mature Height
3.96 m
Mature Spread
30 cm
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Size
0.20 cm
Bloom Time
Summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer
Harvest Time
Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Native Area
Sri Lanka, Burkina Faso, India, Malaysia, Angola, Namibia, Madagascar, Rwanda, Nigeria, Guinea-Bissau, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Benin, Mali, Cambodia, Cameroon, Burundi, Mozambique, Ghana, Ethiopia, Botswana, Congo, Nepal, Malawi, Central African Republic, South Africa, Zambia, Sudan, Mauritania, Laos, Guinea, Chad, China, Vietnam, Japan, Togo, Senegal, Côte d'Ivoire, Congo (DRC)
FREQUENTLY ASKED

Reader questions.

What's the best way to give water to my Australian cowplant?

To promote excellent root development, place a garden hose at the base of the plant. Avoid spraying the leaves directly, especially if the plant is outdoors in direct sunlight, as the leaves may need more watering. You can use bubblers or soaker hoses to moisten the roots, ensuring the entire garden or bed is covered. After adding or removing plants, water at ground level and allow excess water to drain before watering again. It's recommended to wait for the soil to dry before watering. On a sunny day, consider spraying the entire bush with water. Whether the plant is in a pot or in the ground, remember that deep watering is preferred for Australian cowplants over light sprinkling.

How much sunlight does the Australian cowplant need to grow?

Tropical ornamental plants that thrive in full sun require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. These plants are well-suited to areas with strong and direct sunlight, as they need this light to flourish. In their natural habitats, they tend to grow in open fields or along forest edges, where they can enjoy abundant sunlight all day long.

What temperature is best for Australian cowplant?

To help your tropical plants thrive, it's best to maintain a temperature range of 75℉ to 90℉ (25-32℃). While different species can tolerate temperatures outside this range, sticking within a few degrees of these limits will ensure optimal growth. However, there are extreme temperature limits to be aware of. Anything below 50℉ (10℃) or above 95℉ (35℃) can hinder growth and cause issues with the leaves and stems. Low temperatures are particularly damaging, as even a light frost can lead to the death of your tropical plants. In fact, cellular death can occur rapidly, with some species dying within 12 to 24 hours.

What should I do if I give too much or too little water to an Australian cowplant?

If an Australian cowplant is overwatered, its leaves may turn yellow, drop off, and wilt. The plant may also appear dull and unhealthy, with mushy stems. To address these issues, it is best to adjust your watering schedule. Wilting can also indicate under watering, in which case the leaves may become crispy and dry. If the soil is dry and regular watering is not enough, provide a thorough watering. Sufficient water will help the cowplant recover, but it may still have dry and yellow leaves due to root damage. Once it returns to normal, the yellowing of leaves will cease. Indoors, always check the moisture levels of the pot and avoid overwatering. Look for signs of black spots, in which case allow the soil to dry out for a few days. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so consider transferring the plant to a different pot if you observe discolored and slimy roots. Take steps to prevent root rot by avoiding overly soggy soil. When planting the cowplant outdoors, dig a bit deeper and if the soil feels excessively dry, it may indicate underwatering. Provide adequate watering to aid in the plant's recovery.

What happens if an Australian cowplant doesn't get enough sunlight?

Tropical ornamental plants that need full sun may face issues if they don't receive enough sunlight. They might become leggy and weak, and their leaves could turn yellow or pale. Furthermore, they may stop producing flowers. Ultimately, if these plants continue to lack the required amount of direct sunlight, there is a possibility that they may die.

Does the cowplant in Australia need different temperatures for different stages of growth?

The Australian cowplant doesn't need temperature changes to go through different growing phases, but it's important to keep the temperature consistent. Fluctuations in temperature can slow down its growth, so it's best to keep it in a controlled environment. The ideal temperature range for the cowplant is between 75℉ and 90℉ (25-32℃), with it being especially important to stay above the lower limit. Going above 90℉ (32℃) isn't ideal, but as a tropical plant, it won't be too affected. However, going below 50℉ (10℃) (especially 40℉/5℃) will directly damage the plant, as it loves heat.

How often do I need to water my Australian cowplant?

The Australian cowplant prefers deep, infrequent watering. If they are in pots, be sure to soak them with a gallon of water each time. Potted plants have limited water storage and the soil dries out faster. In cold regions, water every 3 to 5 days. Water in the morning when the soil is dry, indoors or outdoors. Check the soil to know if watering is needed. When the top 2-3 inches are dry, water the plant thoroughly. On hot days, check the soil moisture daily as it can dry out quickly. If you have a garden, irrigate the soil accordingly. In a hot climate, water once a week when about 2 to 3 inches of soil is too dry. Be mindful of rainfall and avoid over-watering to prevent root rot. Australian cowplants typically grow in spring and fall. Add mulch, 3 to 4 inches deep, outdoors to conserve water. Sandy soil drains faster, so water more frequently. Clay soil requires less frequent watering, about every 2-3 days, to prevent root rot. Mark watering dates on a calendar and watch for drooping leaves as an indication of potential delay in watering.

What will happen if the Australian cowplant gets too much sunlight?

Tropical ornamental plants that thrive in full sun require ample direct sunlight, but excessive exposure to intense sunlight can harm them. Prolonged periods of direct sunlight can cause sunburned leaves or the development of unsightly brown spots. Additionally, if the soil dries out too rapidly in full sun, these plants may become dehydrated.

Does the Australian cowplant require varying temperatures during different seasons?

The Australian cowplant doesn't require different temperatures for different seasons. The key to seasonal care is to maintain the ideal temperature range. This is why it's recommended to keep the plant indoors, as you can control the temperature regardless of the external climate. Proper lighting is also crucial for tropical species, including cowplants. They prefer a partial side level of sunlight, meaning the light they receive should be dappled or filtered. Bright but indirect light is the best choice for indoor growth, as excessive direct sunlight can harm the leaves and limit growth.

How much water does my Australian cowplant require?

The Australian cowplant generally needs about a gallon of water on a regular basis. For potted plants, water them deeply until water starts dripping out of the bottom of the pot. Wait for the soil to dry before watering again. You can use a water calculator or moisture meter to track how much water you've given the plant in a week. During the flowering period, provide plenty of water but let the moisture evaporate to avoid root rot. If the Australian cowplant is planted outdoors and receives enough rainfall, it may not need extra watering. When it's young or newly planted, make sure it gets 1-2 inches of rain per week. As it grows, it can survive solely on rainfall. Only during extremely hot weather or when there's no rainfall for 2-3 weeks should you consider giving the plant a full watering during cooler parts of the day to prevent heat damage. Additional watering will be needed during long dry spells.

How can you make sure the Australian cowplant doesn't get too much sunlight?

To protect tropical ornamental plants that thrive in full sun, it's important to find a spot with ample direct sunlight but some shield from the intense midday heat. If you're growing these plants in containers, you can move them to a shadier area during the hottest hours to shield them from excessive sunlight. Another option is to offer shade using a shade cloth or umbrella during the peak heat of the day.

What temperatures should you keep your Australian cowplant in to keep it healthy?

Here are three tips to help you take care of your plants: 1. Keep your plants away from windows during colder months: Cold air can leak into your home through cracks in the windows, and any plants placed near them will be affected. Move tropical plants to an area with bright but indirect light, while avoiding potential drafts. 2. Watch out for dry patches, which may indicate too much sunlight or heat: If you notice white or scorched leaves, your plant may be getting too much heat or sunlight. This can lead to dehydration and hinder growth. Dry spots can spread and eventually cause your plants to die if left unaddressed. 3. Be cautious of frost: Colder temperatures and frost can damage plants by disrupting their water circulation. This can lead to a lack of moisture in the stems and leaves. Look out for signs of hydrosis (a water-soaked appearance) and if the issue persists, the plant may shrivel and turn dark brown or black, eventually leading to death.

PLATES
Gymnema sylvestre leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Gymnema sylvestre leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Gymnema sylvestre fruit
PLATE 03 · fruit
Gymnema sylvestre fruit
PLATE 04 · fruit
Gymnema sylvestre bark
PLATE 05 · bark
Gymnema sylvestre bark
PLATE 06 · bark
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