Dysphania

( dis - FAY - nee - uh )

At-A-Glance Information

This genus contains species that are found worldwide, from the topical and subtropical regions of the globe to warm-temperate areas. Plants are typically annuals or short-lived perennials, and produce green foliage. Plants tend to be aromatic. The most popular cultivated species is commonly called Epazote, Wormseed, or Jesuit's Tea, and is grown for its aromatic, tasty foliage that is, as the common name suggests, turned into a hot beverage when steeped in water. Grow these plants in informal gardens or pollinator landscapes, as a part of a tea or herb garden, or in mixed beds and borders. Because of their strong smell, they can be useful companion plantings for areas that need a little pest control boost.

Dysphania Species and Varietals

The genus Dysphania is a member of the plant family Amaranthaceae, and includes 46 species. These plants do well in almost all zones. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Dysphania ambrosioides (Epazote, Mexican Tea, Jesuit's Tea, Wormseed, Ypasote, Ipasote)
This annual to short-lived perennial species reaches about 4 feet tall when mature, and is irregularly branched. Leaves are green, and are ideally collected before the plants produce flowers and seeds. Foliage can be used as a leaf vegetable, herb, or turned into an herbal tea with pungent flavor and scent (reminiscent of citrus, savory, and mint).

Dysphania multifida (Cutleaf Goosefoot, Scented Goosefoot)
This South American native plant can be found on most continents around the world as an introduced species. They can grow in poor and disturbed soils, and are seen growing along roadsides and in tilled field areas. Leaves are green.

Caring for Dysphania



Harvesting Cuminum

Propagation

Bixia orellana seed pods are bright red.
When seeds are mature, seed pods will open.

Problems and Pests

Carum plants are typically pest and disease free. For more information on common garden problems, including how to correct them, see the following links.
​

Gallery

Cryptotaenia japonica atropurpurea.

Videos

All about Lipstick Trees.
How to care for a Lipstick Tree in the garden.

Resources

Wikipedia: Dysphania (plant)
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!
​