Prostrate herbaceous annual with triangular to heart-shaped leaves and long-stemmed yellow and red inflorescences. The individual tubular florets produce tiny, black, nut-like indehiscent fruits (achenes).
Chewing the toothache plant releases an astringent acid which briefly numbs the taste nerves in the tongue. In Thailand this anaesthetizing effect is used to soothe sore throats and toothache. Paracress can also be eaten, however, as it loses its tingly effect when cooked.
The bright yellow flowers and dense foliage of paracress form attractive underplanting and are a highlight of our tropical garden tours for the brave participants who try chewing them.
Peru
Propagated on site
Chewing the toothache plant releases an astringent acid which briefly numbs the taste nerves in the tongue. In Thailand this anaesthetizing effect is used to soothe sore throats and toothache. Paracress can also be eaten, however, as it loses its tingly effect when cooked.
The bright yellow flowers and dense foliage of paracress form attractive underplanting and are a highlight of our tropical garden tours for the brave participants who try chewing them.
