How to Grow Spilanthes: Planting, Care, and Harvesting

Nov 03, 2026by David Schulze

Spilanthes (Acmella oleracea), better known as the toothache plant or paracress, is a fun, fast-growing annual with golden cone-shaped flower buds that carry a red center eye. Its leaves and flowers are traditionally used for the tingling, numbing sensation they produce, and the young leaves can also be tossed into salads. In the garden it is low-growing and blooms all summer, making it a lively addition to beds, borders, and containers.

When to Plant Spilanthes

Spilanthes is a warm-season annual, so wait until all danger of frost has passed before setting plants outdoors. For a head start, sow seeds indoors in pots about six weeks before your last frost date. Germination is quick in warm conditions, often within a week or two.

How to Plant Spilanthes Seeds

The seeds need light to germinate, so press them onto the surface of moist seed-starting mix rather than covering them. Keep the soil warm and consistently moist until seedlings appear, then grow them under bright light and transplant outdoors after frost, hardening them off first. You can also direct sow after the last frost once the soil has warmed. Space plants about 6 to 12 inches apart in full sun to part shade; too much shade makes them tall, spindly, and reluctant to bloom.

Caring for Spilanthes Plants

Give spilanthes moist, fertile, well-drained soil. Water regularly through the season, since the plant dislikes drying out, but avoid soggy ground, which can lead to root rot. Pinch back the growing tips on young plants to encourage a fuller habit, and deadhead spent blooms to keep new flowers coming. If you want seed, leave a few late-season heads to mature.

Harvesting Spilanthes

Harvest leaves at any time once the plant is several inches tall, and use them fresh for the best flavor. The flowers hold the highest concentration of the plant's numbing qualities and are most potent fresh, though they can be dried and stored in an airtight container for later use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called the toothache plant?

Chewing the leaves or flower buds produces a tingling, numbing sensation in the mouth, and the plant has traditionally been used for that purpose. The flowers carry the strongest effect.

Is spilanthes a perennial?

It is grown as an annual in most climates and is removed at the end of the season. It readily reseeds itself, so you may see volunteers the following spring.