Thumbai - Leucas aspera (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Thumbai

Also known as: Thumba

Thumbai (Leucas aspera) can grow in places where other plants would struggle, such as soils heavily contaminated with zinc and copper from pollution. It can often creep into agricultural fields and make itself at home among more desirable plants like sunflowers. When the leaves are burned, the smoke is a very effective insecticide.

Scientific classification

Species

Thumbai (Leucas aspera)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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15 cm to 60 cm

Plant Height

Green

Leaf Color

2 cm to 3 cm

Flower Size

White

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Thumbai

Distribution of Thumbai

Distribution Map

Thumbai is naturally distributed across South and Southeast Asia. It has become introduced to regions in the Horn of Africa. This plant thrives in its native tropical and subtropical climates and has extended its presence to additional suitable environments beyond its original range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Thumbai

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Water: Thumbai flourishes in tropical rainforests, thriving in high humidity and frequent rainfall. It prefers moist conditions and should be watered weekly for lush growth. As an evergreen, thumbai retains water well year-round, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor gardening.

Fertilize: Thumbai thrives with balanced nutrition fertilizers during the growing season and high nitrogen fertilizers pre-flowering, applied monthly as per label instructions. Reduce winter applications to prevent root burn and ensure even soil distribution for vigorous growth and optimal blooms.

Pruning: Thumbai features whorled flowers and medicinal qualities. Prune in early spring to remove weak branches, promoting health and denser foliage. Use sterilized tools to prevent infections. These practices enhance the plant's vigor and visual appeal while minimizing disease risks.

Propagation: Thumbai is valued for its medicinal properties and features white flowers. Successful propagation requires sowing seeds in well-draining soil with consistent moisture. Seeds should be sown shallowly, needing light to germinate. Thinning seedlings promotes growth, and young plants need careful nurturing until establishment.

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Images of Thumbai

Distribution of Thumbai

Care Guide for Thumbai

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