Starburst Spil, scientifically known as Spilanthes acmella, is a fascinating plant gaining popularity among gardeners and culinary enthusiasts. This vibrant herb offers a unique sensory and ornamental appeal. Understanding its needs ensures successful cultivation.
Meet the Starburst Spil
Description and Common Names
Starburst Spil (Spilanthes acmella, Acmella oleracea) is an herbaceous plant in the Asteraceae family, including daisies and sunflowers. This low-growing annual reaches 12-15 inches tall and spreads up to 30 inches, with mid-to-dark green, cordate leaves. Its distinctive yellow, cone-shaped flower heads often have a reddish-brown center, giving them an “eyeball” or “starburst” appearance. These unique blooms have led to common names like Toothache Plant, Electric Daisy, Para Cress, Buzz Buttons, and Eyeball Plant.
Unique Properties and Sensation
Starburst Spil’s primary allure is the unique sensation produced when its parts are consumed. Chewing leaves or flowers creates a tingling, numbing, and saliva-inducing effect. This distinct sensation comes from spilanthol, a bioactive compound concentrated in the flowers. Spilanthol provides local anesthetic and pain-relieving properties, earning it the “Toothache Plant” name. It also stimulates taste buds and increases saliva flow, making it a unique culinary addition.
Cultivating Starburst Spil
Light Requirements
Starburst Spil thrives in ample sunlight, preferring full sun (at least five hours daily) for robust growth and abundant flowering. While it tolerates partial shade, especially in hotter climates, too much shade reduces flowering and vigor. Sufficient light exposure helps the plant produce more spilanthol-rich flowers.
Soil and Nutrients
This plant grows best in rich, well-draining soil with high organic matter. Good drainage prevents waterlogging. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.1-7.0) supports optimal growth. Incorporating organic material before planting and providing a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks promotes lush growth and continuous flowering.
Watering Practices
Consistent moisture is important for Starburst Spil, a water-hungry plant that quickly shows thirst. Regular watering is necessary, especially during dry conditions, to maintain moist, not soggy, soil. Avoid overwatering, as the plant is susceptible to root rot. Drip irrigation or watering directly at soil level ensures adequate moisture without wetting foliage, preventing diseases.
Temperature and Humidity
Starburst Spil is a warm-weather plant native to tropical and subtropical regions, making it sensitive to cold temperatures and frost. It is typically grown as an annual in most temperate climates, behaving as a perennial only in USDA Zones 9-11 with warm year-round temperatures. Night temperatures above 50°F (10°C) are ideal for outdoor cultivation. Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) will cause the plant to suffer and die back. High humidity is also beneficial for its growth.
Pest and Disease Management
Starburst Spil is generally resistant to many common diseases and insects, making it low-maintenance. Young seedlings can be vulnerable to slugs, requiring protection during establishment. Maintaining good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering prevents fungal issues.
Harvesting and Practical Uses
When and How to Harvest
Leaves can be harvested once the plant reaches several inches; continuous picking encourages more production. For highest spilanthol concentration, flowers are best harvested when large and elongated, before fading. Regular weekly or bi-weekly flower harvesting stimulates more blooms. The entire plant can also be harvested in fall before the first frost by cutting foliage and pulling roots.
Culinary Applications
Starburst Spil adds a unique tingling or numbing sensation to food, making it a distinct culinary ingredient. Its leaves and flowers are used as spices or condiments in various cuisines, particularly Indian, South Asian, and Brazilian. They can be incorporated into curries, chutneys, salads, soups, and sauces. Shredded fresh leaves add unique flavor to salads, while cooked leaves are used in dishes similar to spinach.
Traditional and Modern Uses
Historically, Starburst Spil has been widely used in traditional medicine for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Its traditional use in alleviating toothaches and gum problems earned it the “Toothache Plant” name. It has also been applied to treat mouth sores, sore throats, fevers, and as a diuretic. Modern applications extend to oral care products, with spilanthol used in toothpastes and mouth rinses for its numbing and antimicrobial effects. The plant’s skin-tightening and rejuvenating properties have also led to its use in the cosmetic industry.
Propagating Starburst Spil
From Seed
Propagating Starburst Spil from seed is straightforward. Seeds can be started indoors 3-6 weeks before the last frost, or direct-sown outdoors after frost danger passes. Surface sow seeds and gently press them into the soil, as they require light for germination. Optimal germination occurs at 65-80°F (18-27°C), with sprouting typically within 7-30 days; keep trays moist. Once seedlings develop two sets of leaves, transplant them to larger pots or their final outdoor location, spaced 12-18 inches apart.
From Cuttings
Starburst Spil can also be propagated from stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from vigorous, non-flowering stems. Providing consistent moisture and warmth, similar to seed germination, supports successful rooting.