Toothache Plant (Acmella oleracea)

1 well-established plant in a 9cm pot, sent in plastic-free packaging. A fascinating, low-growing tender perennial, prized for its striking, unusual flowers.

Tender Perennial (Grown as Annual) | 20/30cm tall | Full sun to partial shade | Highly ornamental and medicinally potent

Acmella oleracea is a remarkable, spreading plant native to South America. Visually, it is famous for its “eyeball” flowers, conical, yellow blooms that completely lack outer petals. When chewed, the chemicals in the plant increase saliva production and induce an intense, vibrating, numbing sensation on the palate, often compared to the feeling of a low-voltage battery or popping candy. In the culinary world, it is used sparingly to add a “buzzing” effect to high-end cocktails and salads.

The toothache plant is highly sensitive to cold and will instantly collapse at the first sign of frost. Consequently, it is exclusively cultivated as a warm-season annual in the UK. It thrives in rich, moisture-retentive soil and performs beautifully as a low border edging or in a dedicated container. Acmella oleracea has very poor drought tolerance; its fleshy leaves will dramatically flag and wilt if the soil dries out, so it requires consistent, even watering throughout the height of summer to maintain its vigorous growth and continued flowering.