Wartremoving Herb (Murdannia keisak)

Murdannia keisak is known by many common names including wartremoving herb. It is native to East Asia and is connected to the growing of rice in these areas. It has been introduced in the United States and grows aggressively.

I. Appearance and Characteristics 

Murdannia keisak, the marsh dewflower, is an annual, emergent plant in the family Commelinaceae. It is known by several other common names, including aneilema, wart-removing herb, Asian spiderwort, and marsh dayflower. The alternate-leaved plant has succulent, prostrate stems 12 to 20 inches long, and forms new roots at the lower nodes. Three-petaled, perfect flowers, white to bluish-purple or pink, are found in the upper leaf axils and at the ends of stems. The fruit is a capsule with several small seeds. A plant of freshwater marshes and the edges of ponds and streams, Murdannia keisak is associated with the growing of rice in east Asia, where it is native to China, Japan, Korea, and Tibet.

Murdannia keisak is an introduced species in the United States. First records in Louisiana and South Carolina date from the 1920s and 1930s. It is most likely that Murdannia keisak accompanied rice imported for agriculture. Evidence also suggests that the plant was present decades before its first collection. Populations are established in the mid-Atlantic and southeastern US, from New Jersey to Florida and west to Arkansas and Louisiana; it is also known from the Columbia River estuary between Washington and Oregon.

Murdannia keisak can spread aggressively, crowding out other vegetation and forming a solid mat. It can disperse by its small seeds, which are a preferred food of ducks and other waterfowl; it can also reproduce vegetatively.

II. How to Grow and Care

Wartremoving herb is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in moist environments with adequate drainage. It requires full to partial sunlight to prosper. Special care points include ensuring consistent soil moisture without waterlogging and providing a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season. Pruning may be necessary to manage growth and maintain plant health.

Sunlight

Wartremoving herb’s optimal light conditions involve full sun exposure, which is crucial for its vigorous growth and flourishing health. Adequate sunlight ensures the best photosynthetic efficiency and contributes to strong stem development and abundant flower production. While wartremoving herb tolerates partial sun, lesser light may result in leggy plants, reduced flowering, and overall vitality.

Adaptations to light include potential leaf angle adjustments to maximize light capture. For outdoor cultivation, wartremoving herb thrives best in sunny borders or open areas where it can receive unfiltered light for most of the day. These light preferences are fundamental to supporting wartremoving herb’s robustness and its traditional uses.

Watering

Wartremoving herb thrives in moist environments, akin to its origins in humid regions. It has adapted to require consistent hydration but is forgiving of brief dry spells. Watering every week maintains its lush growth and health. As an herbaceous perennial, wartremoving herb benefits significantly from being grown outdoors where natural rainfall can complement regular watering schedules. Its ability to flourish is enhanced when the soil moisture levels mimic the wet conditions of its native habitat.

Fertilizing

For wartremoving herb, use high-nitrogen fertilizers to support vigorous growth and lush foliage. Apply a diluted solution every four weeks during active growth in the spring and summer, reducing to once every six to eight weeks in the fall and winter. A light feeding is preferable; excessive amounts can harm the plant. Seasonal adjustments ensure wartremoving herbs receives appropriate nutrients for varying energy needs. Incorporate practical tips like applying during the morning and ensuring soil is moist to enhance nutrient uptake and prevent root burn. Adhering to these specific recommendations will maintain wartremoving herb’s health and vitality.

Propagation

Wartremoving herb is traditionally known for its medicinal properties. For successful propagation, cuttings should be taken from healthy, vigorous plants—ensure a sharp, clean cut to prevent infection. To encourage root development, use a rooting hormone and maintain appropriate moisture levels in a soilless potting mix. Bright, indirect light aids growth while avoiding the risk of scorching tender shoots. Once rooted, transitioning to a more permanent growing medium supports the continued growth and health of wartremoving herb.

Transplanting

Transplant wartremoving herb in the gentle embrace of late spring or the welcoming warmth of early summer, allowing roots to establish with the season’s vigor. Choose a sun-kissed location with moist, well-drained soil to ensure thriving growth.

III. Uses and Benefits 

Murdannia keisak is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and homes. It is also used as a ground cover and to create a natural privacy screen or hedge, as it grows quickly and is easy to maintain.