How to Grow Andrographis?

May 27, 2025

If you're looking for a unique and rewarding herb to add to your home garden, Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) is a wonderful choice. Known for its tall, leafy growth and tropical origins, this herb is a favorite among herbalists and gardening enthusiasts alike.

While many recognize Andrographis for its traditional use in herbal medicine, today we’ll be focusing on something just as special—how to grow it at home.

At Bluestem Botanicals, we’re all about nurturing a deeper connection with the earth through plant cultivation.

That’s why we’re excited to share this practical guide for growing Andrographis yourself. And for those who’d rather skip the soil, you can always enjoy our Andrographis Dried Herb, grown and dried with care.

Understanding Andrographis

Andrographis is a tropical annual herb native to South and Southeast Asia. In its natural habitat, it grows in warm, humid environments and is known for its upright, branching structure and narrow, lance-shaped green leaves. It typically reaches between 18 inches to 2 feet tall, making it a manageable size for small garden plots or even large containers.

While this herb has gained attention in herbal communities for its various uses, what we love most about it is how easy and fulfilling it is to grow—especially for beginner gardeners or those looking to expand their home herb garden with something a little different.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Andrographis isn’t a fussy plant, but it does appreciate certain conditions to thrive. Here's what you’ll need to keep in mind:

Climate & Temperature

This herb prefers warmth. If you live in a region with hot, humid summers, you’re in luck—Andrographis will feel right at home. The ideal temperature range is 70–85°F (21–29°C). It's sensitive to cold and will not survive frost, so it should be treated as an annual in most climates unless you’re in a tropical zone.

Soil Type

Well-drained, rich soil is key. A sandy loam or a good-quality garden soil mixed with compost or aged manure will support healthy root growth. Drainage is crucial, so avoid heavy, compacted soil or spots where water tends to pool.

Sunlight Requirements

Andrographis thrives in full sun. Pick a spot that gets a minimum of 6 to 8 hours of direct sun each day. In hot climates, a bit of afternoon shade can help prevent scorching, but generally, the more sun, the better.

Starting from Seed or Transplant

Whether you’re starting from scratch or transplanting, growing Andrographis at home is very doable—even if you’re new to gardening.

Starting Seeds Indoors

Start your seeds indoors about 8-10 weeks ahead of your area's final anticipated frost.
Use a seed-starting tray with a light, well-draining potting mix and if available use a heat mat.
Press seeds gently into the soil surface, then lightly cover with a fine layer of soil.
Keep the tray in a warm spot, ideally around 70–80°F (21–27°C).
Lightly mist the soil to maintain moisture without causing it to become waterlogged.
Expect germination in 1 to 2 weeks.

Transplanting Outdoors

Once the risk of frost has passed and outdoor temperatures are consistently warm, it’s safe to move your seedlings outside.

Harden off your seedlings by exposing them to outdoor conditions gradually over 5–7 days.
Choose a sunny, well-drained garden bed or a large pot with drainage holes.
Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow for airflow and healthy branching.

Care and Maintenance

Caring for Andrographis is simple, but like any plant, it benefits from a little attention and consistency.

Watering

Water regularly, especially during dry spells. The soil should stay moist, but not saturated. Once established, Andrographis can tolerate short periods of drought, but it prefers consistent moisture.

Pest and Disease Management

Andrographis is fairly resilient, but occasional pests like aphids or spider mites may show up. Stick with natural remedies like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or a gentle hose spray to remove bugs. Good spacing and airflow help prevent most fungal problems.

Supporting Growth

You can encourage bushier, fuller growth by pinching back the growing tips when the plant is young. As it matures, keep an eye out for any yellowing or damaged leaves and trim them as needed to keep the plant healthy.

When and How to Harvest

The best time to harvest Andrographis is right before it flowers. At this stage, the leaves are most vibrant, and the plant’s energy is focused in its foliage.

Use clean, sharp scissors or garden snips.
Trim the stems slightly above a set of leaves to help the plant branch out and continue growing.
Bundle stems in small bunches and hang them in a dry, dark, well-ventilated area.
Once fully dried, strip the leaves from the stems and store them in an airtight container away from heat and light.

Prefer to skip this step? Our Dried Andrographis Herb is ready when you are.

Using What You Grow

While we’re not diving into the specific uses of Andrographis, it’s safe to say that once dried, it can be used in a wide variety of personal herbal preparations. Whether you’re growing for educational curiosity, sustainability, or a desire to connect with your garden more deeply, there’s something deeply satisfying about tending a plant from seed to harvest.

Explore More Herbs

If growing Andrographis has sparked your interest in cultivating herbs at home, you’re in good company. We have a whole collection of fascinating, beginner-friendly herbs to grow or purchase dried and ready for your herbal pantry.

Check out our full Dried Herbs Collection to discover more.

Growing Andrographis at home is a meaningful and rewarding experience. With just a bit of warmth, sunlight, and care, this tropical herb can thrive in your garden or on your patio. Whether you’re just starting your herbal journey or adding to an already flourishing collection, we hope this guide gives you the confidence to get started.

At Bluestem Botanicals, we’re here to support your path—from seed to harvest and beyond. Explore our full selection of dried herbs, growing resources, and community education—all designed to keep you grounded, growing, and connected.

Happy growing

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