Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) Care: Indoor Growth and Uses

Patchouli is a tropical perennial herb grown for its fragrant essential oil (perfume, insect repellent). Your 20-inch indoor plant is thriving.

Care:

• Light: Bright, indirect; some morning sun.
• Temperature: Keep above 50°F. Not frost-hardy.
• Water: Let top inch dry between waterings.
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix.
• Fertilizer: Weekly dilute balanced feed in spring/summer.
• Pruning: Pinch tips to encourage bushiness. Don't repot into a larger pot if you want to restrict size.

Harvesting: Leaves can be dried for potpourri, sachets, or oil distillation. Cut stems, hang upside down in a dark, airy place. Leaves are most fragrant just before flowering.

It rarely flowers indoors; if it does, spikes of small white/pink flowers appear.