Acmella (acmella oleracea)

What you should know: Beautiful tropical annual plant reaching a height of up to about 20 cm., With its sparkling colors yellow and red centers it offers its very specific taste experience. Acmella can be grown in a pot on the balcony or box out in the open. People call it also Hussar head because of the color of its hat is very similar to hussars.

Uses: The flowers and leaves can be harvested throughout the year when the plant is in a pot. They can be used as dried and fresh, suitable for sauces, dressings, meat and carpaccio. The color of the plant also brings a nice feeling when eating because at first it is streaming and stinging like popping candy. Then stinging effect becomes sweet and sour spicy raunchy. So "nipping flower", as it is known among gardeners, is lately very preferred for party salads dressing. The watercress like flavor strengthens the immune system and furthermore it helps prevent inflammation in the mouth and throat. Only two months after sowing you can begin to harvest.

Origin: Homeland of Acmella is tropical Brazil

Propagation: Sprouts need light and therefore you should not cover them with soil, just press them lightly in the greenhouse soil or earth, suitable for herbs and spices and keep them evenly moist. At a temperature of 12-22 ° C seeds germinate in about 9 to 14 days. If planted outdoors, it should be done after mid-May.

Care: Acmella prefers light to sunny places and needs moisture and soil nutrients. It doesn’t need any additional fertilizer. By pruning, the small shrub embranches.