Epazote
Dysphania ambrosioides
Also known asMexican tea · Wormseed · Pazote · Hierba santa María · Apazote
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 6–12 (winter low around -23°C)
- Frost
- frost sensitive (dies at first frost)
- Season
- warm (summer, frost-sensitive)
Growing systems
Root mass: moderate.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
| Perlite (Expanded volcanic glass) | neutral / inert | very low | low |
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0.8 |
| vegetative | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1.4 |
Aquaponics suitability
Compatible
Fish waste provides enough nitrogen for healthy growth. Supplemental potassium, calcium, and iron may still be needed depending on fish stocking density.
Care notes
An easy, vigorous herb for warm conditions. EC 1.0-2.0 mS/cm. pH 6.0-7.5 (adaptable). Temperature: 18–32°C (warm-season; frost kills the plant). Moderate to high light (DLI 14-22 mol/m2/day). Grows in any hydroponic system. From seed to first harvest: 5-7 weeks. The plant self-seeds aggressively in outdoor settings; in hydroponic systems, this tendency is irrelevant. Harvest individual leaves or stem tips as needed. The flavor is strongest in mature leaves; young leaves are milder. Use sparingly: 2-3 leaves in a pot of black beans is typical. Overconsumption of epazote is not recommended; the essential oil (ascaridole) is toxic in large quantities. As a culinary herb, the amounts used in cooking are safe. Drying preserves some flavor but fresh is far superior. For Mexican and Central American cooking enthusiasts, a single epazote plant provides more than enough fresh herb for a household's bean-cooking needs year-round. The plant is nearly impossible to find fresh at retail outside Mexican grocery stores, making it a high-value personal-use crop.