Tusilla: An Unusual Tropical Herb for Adventurous Gardeners
Meet tusilla (Dorstenia contrajerva), a quirky little plant that’s sure to spark conversations in your garden. This unusual perennial herb brings a touch of tropical mystery to plant collections with its distinctive appearance and interesting growing habits.
What Makes Tusilla Special?
Tusilla is what botanists call a forb – essentially an herbaceous plant that stays relatively small and doesn’t develop woody stems like shrubs or trees. What makes it truly fascinating are its peculiar flowers that don’t look like typical flowers at all. Instead of showy petals, tusilla produces small, fig-like structures that give it an almost alien appearance in the plant world.
Where Does Tusilla Come From?
This intriguing plant is native to Puerto Rico and other tropical regions of the Caribbean and Central America. In the continental United States, you’ll find it growing in Florida, where it has established itself as a non-native species that reproduces on its own in the wild.
Should You Grow Tusilla in Your Garden?
Tusilla can be an interesting addition to specialized plant collections, but it’s definitely not for every gardener. Here’s what you should consider:
The Good:
- Unique conversation starter for plant enthusiasts
- Relatively low-maintenance once established
- Interesting textural element in tropical-themed gardens
- Can be grown as a houseplant in cooler climates
The Challenges:
- Limited cold tolerance (only hardy in zones 10-11)
- Not particularly showy or colorful
- Offers minimal benefits to local wildlife and pollinators
- Can be finicky about watering and drainage
Native Alternatives to Consider
Since tusilla isn’t native to most of the United States, you might want to consider native alternatives that offer similar interest while supporting local ecosystems. For tropical and subtropical regions, native wildflowers and herbs can provide unique textures and forms while benefiting local wildlife.
How to Grow Tusilla Successfully
If you decide to give tusilla a try, here’s how to keep it happy:
Growing Conditions:
- Light: Bright, indirect light or partial shade
- Soil: Well-draining soil is absolutely essential
- Water: Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering
- Temperature: Warm temperatures year-round (zones 10-11 outdoors)
- Humidity: Moderate humidity levels
Planting and Care Tips:
- Plant in containers with drainage holes if your soil doesn’t drain well
- In cooler climates, grow as a houseplant or move containers indoors during winter
- Water sparingly – this plant is more likely to suffer from too much water than too little
- Provide protection from strong winds
- Watch for signs of root rot if leaves start yellowing or dropping
The Bottom Line
Tusilla is definitely a niche plant that appeals to collectors of unusual species rather than general gardeners looking for showy blooms or wildlife benefits. If you’re fascinated by botanical curiosities and have the right growing conditions, it can be a rewarding addition to a specialized collection. However, for most gardeners, native plants will offer better value in terms of beauty, wildlife support, and ease of care.
Whether you choose to grow tusilla or opt for native alternatives, remember that the best garden plants are ones that thrive in your specific conditions while bringing you joy every time you see them.
