How to Care and Propagate: Costus Igeus Plant (Insulin Plant)

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Introduction:

  • Costus igeus, commonly known as Insulin plant in India, belongs to family Costaceae.
  • This plant is used mainly for the medicinal purposes.

Soil & Climate:

  • Insulin plant can easily grow in garden soil. Also, it is an easy-maintenance plant.
  • It can adjust to various type and the quality of the soil. But the ideal Soil composition is 20% compost and 80% gardening Soil.
  • Regards to fertilizer use, one can use cow manure or any organic fertilizer in the summers.
  • Insulin can grow in both tropical and sub-tropical conditions.
  • The area for growing the Insulin plant should have a balance of sunlight and shade.

Water Technique:

  • Water well once upper layer of soil is dried. You can check by touching the soil.

Propagation:

  • One common technique of propagation of the Insulin plant is, by cutting its stem and placing it in pot.
  • Second technique is Root division technique. When small buds grow in the pot, you can repot them by separating through their roots.

Importance & Benefits:

  • If plant is grown in well fertile soil (ground or big pot size: 18~22inch) then it bear flowers.
  • Flower of this plant has an ornamental use.
  • The rich green leaves comprise of Corosolic acid and various other enriching nutrients.
  • In India, some Ayurvedic doctor suggest to consume two leaves daily which helps to control glucose levels in the bloodstream and cures the condition for a diabetic person. This medicinal use of insulin plant is a nature’s wonder for a diabetic person.

Thanks and best of Luck!

Happy Planting!

I would like to hear your thoughts, suggestions and any questions in the comments below.


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