Sichuan Buttons Acmella oleracea

Toothache plant is a perennial flowering herb in the aster family (Asteraceae) native to South America from Brazil to Argentina. While its native distribution is not clear, it is thought to be derived from a Brazillian Acmella species. It has been known to escape from cultivation and grow in wet localities such as lakeside marshes. The specific epithet is Latin for vegetable/herb.

The plant will grow 1-1.5 feet tall and wide and prefers moist, well-drained, organically rich soils and full or partial sun. In its native environment, it grows as a perennial in regions with an average temperature of 82 degrees F., heavy rainfall, and a relative humidity of 85%.

The toothache plant has yellow to orange flowers that attract fireflies. The leaves add a pungent flavor to salads and soups and are high in vitamins and minerals. The flowers can be eaten sparingly and cause tingling and increased salivation followed by numbness. An extract, sometimes called jambu, is used as a flavoring agent in foods, chewing gum, and chewing tobacco.

The plant is rarely used ornamentally and is primarily grown for culinary and numbing properties. It is being studied for other medicinal uses.

Diseases, Pests, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems