Rehmannia (Rehmannia glutinosa)

Also known as: Chinese foxglove, Sheng Di Huang, Rehmannia root

Rehmannia is native to the open woodlands and mountainous regions of China, where it holds significant cultural importance. The term "glutinosa" in Rehmannia glutinosa is derived from the Latin word for "sticky" (glutinosus), which describes the sticky texture of its leaves, stems, and roots.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Rehmannia

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

10 cm to 30 cm

Spread

30 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2-3 centimeters

Flower Color

Red Pink Purple

Images of Rehmannia

Quickly Identify Rehmannia

Rehmannia glutinosa can be identified by its hairy, dark-green leaves and tubular, purplish-red flowers that resemble foxglove flowers. The plant has a short stem, and its roots are thick and fleshy.

Scientific Classification of Rehmannia

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

Family

Broomrape

Genus

rehmannia

Species

Rehmannia

Planting and Growing of Rehmannia

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Rehmannia?

Rehmannia glutinosa requires watering that ensures the soil is moist but not waterlogged. It is important to let the top inch of the soil dry out between watering to prevent root rot. Use approximately 250 milliliters of water each time, adjusting slightly depending on pot size and environmental conditions.

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Rehmannia?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 3-6 hours of sun

Rehmannia glutinosa thrives in conditions with partial sun that mimics its natural forest floor environment. Ideal lighting encourages strong foliar growth, boosts photosynthetic efficiency, and supports healthy flowering.

What is the ideal lighting condition for Rehmannia glutinosa? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Rehmannia?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 77℉

Rehmannia glutinosa thrives in warm climates with a temperature range of 68°F to 77°F. This range ensures optimal metabolic functions and growth, providing the energy necessary for photosynthesis and nutrient uptake.

What Soil is Best for Rehmannia?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Rehmannia glutinosa thrives in nutrient-rich soils that can support its dense root system. Rich soils promote vigorous growth and ensure robust rhizomes, essential for its medicinal properties. Ensuring well-drained soil is crucial because stagnant water can lead to root rot. Proper drainage helps the roots to access air and nutrients effectively, maintaining plant health. The soil should retain moderate moisture to keep the plant hydrated but not waterlogged. This balance prevents stress from drought or excess moisture, supporting steady growth.

How to Fertilize Rehmannia?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Rehmannia glutinosa requires an adequate but balanced amount of fertilizer to thrive. For liquid fertilizers, 2ml per liter of water is suitable for maintaining healthy growth. For solid fertilizers, 50 grams per square meter applied evenly over the soil surface provides necessary nutrients without risking excessive accumulation. Always ensure uniform distribution to maximize nutrient uptake.

How to Prune Rehmannia?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

When pruning Rehmannia glutinosa, be cautious around new growth. Cutting too aggressively can harm the plant's ability to produce new leaves and flowers. Allow enough space for fresh shoots to develop effectively. After pruning, water the plant adequately and consider applying a balanced fertilizer to promote recovery and boost new growth. This will assist in keeping the plant healthy and encourage vibrant blooms.

How to Propagate Rehmannia plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early Spring, Late Spring

Begin by sourcing high-quality Rehmannia glutinosa seeds. Sow the seeds in a seed tray filled with a peat-based growing medium. Ensure they are lightly covered to maintain humidity and temperature levels.

Choose healthy, disease-free stems during active growth. Using pruning shears, cut a 4-6 inch section. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting.

Division involves carefully lifting the plant and separating its root ball into sections. Ensure each section has at least one growing point or healthy shoot for successful replanting.

How to Repot Rehmannia plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

The ideal time to repot Rehmannia glutinosa is when you notice the roots beginning to outgrow the current pot, often visible through drainage holes. Another signal is slower growth due to nutrient depletion. Choose spring or autumn for optimal plant recovery, avoiding stress-inducing hot summer or harsh winter.

Select a pot that is 2-4 inches larger in diameter than the current one and has sufficient drainage holes. Using the correct pot size prevents waterlogging and promotes healthy root expansion. The material should be breathable like terracotta, aiding in moisture regulation.

A well-draining potting mix is crucial for Rehmannia glutinosa. It typically consists of a blend of peat, perlite, and vermiculite, ensuring adequate drainage while retaining enough moisture to nourish the roots. This reduces the risk of root rot and supports healthy growth.

Toxicity of Rehmannia

Is Rehmannia toxic to humans?

Rehmannia is a plant with mild toxic properties that necessitates additional research. The primary focus has been on its roots, which are believed to harbor various toxins. When ingested, symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness, and palpitations may occur; however, these effects are generally mild and not deemed life-threatening. Chronic consumption has also been associated with abdominal distension and loose stools. In its natural habitat, the plant presents a minimal risk of poisoning, with the highest risk groups being individuals who consume products containing parts of the rehmannia plant.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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