Pilocarpus microphyllus Seeds | (jaborandi)
LATIN NAME: Pilocarpus microphyllus
COMMON NAME: Jaborandi
Plant Profile
Known to gardeners as Jaborandi, Pilocarpus microphyllus is an upright, evergreen shrub in the rue family (Rutaceae), native to warm forests of the north-eastern Brazil, while it is treasured for its fine, glossy leaves. In warm forests of the north-eastern Brazil grows a shrubby tree with a quiet-looking leaf and a very strong chemistry. Glossy, pinnate leaves give shrub a neat, evergreen look, and small flowers and fruits are easy to pass by unless you know what you are looking for. Given room and time, it reaches roughly Five metres. These traits together are what have kept the plant in gardens for so long.
Science & Biotechnology
The species features in the wider study of the rue family, and its traits make it a useful subject for work on germination biology, cultivation and ornamental selection. Chemistry of this plant has kept it in pharmaceutical research for well over a century. Breeders and collectors still work with it, so well-kept seed remains available.
Uses & Benefits
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Jaborandi has the practical versatility that makes a plant worth growing from seed year after year. In warm garden, jaborandi is a handsome, glossy-leaved shrub. Its leaves have a long history of use in pharmaceutical work of region, and its fine, glossy form has made it a treasured shrub of warm garden. Plant is best kept as a subject of study rather than a casual home remedy, and its fine, glossy leaves make it a handsome evergreen for warm, sheltered corner. Given the right start, it carries on with minimal intervention.
Pilocarpus gave medicine pilocarpine, the alkaloid still used for glaucoma and dry mouth; a reminder that the tropics remain a living pharmacy.
Growing from Seed
Raising Jaborandi from seed is straightforward. Use a loose, well-drained seed compost, sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly, and keep everything evenly moist in bright light. Transplant the sturdiest seedlings to their permanent spots and let them develop without disturbance.
Our Take
Jaborandi is the kind of plant that rewards a permanent spot. Fresh seed sown into evenly moist compost is most of the battle won.
Related Reading
Gardeners who grow Jaborandi often pair it with these related subjects: