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The Complete Guide to Jewel Weed Plant: Care Tips and More
Are you looking for a plant that can provide relief from skin irritations caused by poison ivy, oak or sumac? Then you have to look no further than jewel weed plant.
Also known as touch-me-not, this plant is not only beautiful but also has medicinal properties.
What is Jewel Weed Plant?
Jewel weed belongs to the Impatiens family and is native to North America.
It grows in moist areas like wetlands, stream banks, and damp woods.
The leaves of the jewel weed are oval-shaped with jagged edges which makes it easy to identify.
The flowers of this plant are trumpet-shaped with a yellow-orange color that looks like jewels when wet.
Jewel Weed Uses
- Skin Irritation: Jewel weed has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce itching, rashes caused by poison ivy or oak.
- Insect Bites: Applying the juice from crushed jewelweed leaves on insect bites provides instant relief from itching and inflammation.
- Burns:Jewelweed has cooling properties that can help soothe minor burns and sunburns.
Caring for Your Jewel Weed Plant
If you want your jewel weed plants to thrive year after year, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
- Sunlight: Although jewelweeds prefer partial shade, they can tolerate full sun if they get enough water every day.
- Watering: Jewelweeds require consistently damp soil throughout their growing season.
You should water your jewelweed plant at least once a week while avoiding overwatering.
- Soil: This plant requires moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Fertilizer: Jewel weeds do not need much fertilization as they grow easily in their natural habitat.
Jewel Weed Plant Propagation
If you want to expand your jewel weed garden, you can propagate this plant through seeds or by division.
Here’s how:
- Propagation through Seeds: Collect seed pods when the flowers have died and turned brownish-yellow.
Place them in a paper bag until they dry and crack open on their own.
Then, scatter the seeds on moist soil and cover them lightly with a layer of peat moss.
- Propagation by Division: In early spring or fall, divide mature plants into smaller clumps using a spade or knife.
Jewel Weed Precautions
Jewel weed is generally safe for everyone if used externally as directed.
However, pregnant women should avoid using it without consulting their healthcare professional.
The Bottom Line
Jewel weed is a beautiful and useful addition to any garden.
This plant has medicinal properties that provide relief from skin irritations caused by poison ivy or oak, insect bites and minor burns. By following the care tips mentioned above, you can enjoy its beauty year after year.
