Epazote - 4" Pot

Epazote, scientifically known as Dysphania ambrosioides (formerly Chenopodium ambrosioides), is an aromatic herbaceous plant native to Mexico, Central, and South America. This annual or short-lived perennial grows up to 3-4 feet tall, featuring slender, dark green, serrated leaves and small greenish flowers. It belongs to the Amaranthaceae family and is renowned for its strong, pungent aroma—often described as medicinal, citrusy, or even "skunk-like," earning it the Nahuatl-derived name meaning roughly "skunk sweat." In warm climates like southern California, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil but can spread readily.

Primarily used in Mexican and Central American cuisine, epazote flavors bean dishes (especially black beans), soups, and stews, adding unique notes of anise, oregano, and citrus while helping reduce gas and bloating. Traditionally, Aztecs and Mayans brewed it as tea or used it medicinally to expel intestinal parasites, aid digestion, and relieve stomach issues. Though effective in small amounts, large quantities can be toxic due to compounds like ascaridole, so it's best used sparingly in cooking.

Mature Height: 3-4ft
Mature Width: 2-3ft
Light: Full Sun
Water: Moderate

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