Species henna
small, coral flowers with long creamy stamens, small, green leaves, and pink-green stems

henna

Lawsonia inermis

Henna (Lawsonia inermis) is an evergreen shrub with deep green, glossy leaves and small, fragrant white flowers. It is native to north-eastern Africa and Asia, and is widely used to create temporary body art designs on skin. It is a fast-growing, drought-resistant plant which can reach up to four metres in height and spread up to four metres across. The leaves of the henna plant contain a dye which, when mixed with water, can be used to create intricate designs on the skin. These designs typically last up to a week or more before fading. Henna is also used as a medicine and in hair colouring and conditioners.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Division,Air Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

10 - 12

Flowers:

White or pink Flowers

Sun:

full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Henna plants (Lawsonia inermis) prefer soil that is slightly on the dry side, so they should be watered less often than other plant species. When watering henna, aim to moisten the top inch or 2 of soil every 2 weeks. During the growing season (spring and summer), you may need to water a bit more frequently, especially if the temperature is higher. If you notice drooping leaves, give the henna a little more water. When the plant is dormant (during winter), water only when the soil is completely dry.

sunlight

Henna (Lawsonia inermis) needs about 8 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and health. This should be spread out during the course of the day; it is recommended that it receives 3-4 hours of direct sunlight in the morning and another 3-4 hours in the late afternoon. If the henna plant is placed in a sunny location, such as near a window in the home, be sure that it does not receive too much direct sunlight, otherwise it could be burned or stressed. It is best to provide henna with as much outdoor sunlight as possible.

pruning

Henna should be pruned twice each year, once during late fall (November-December) and once during the spring (April-May). During these pruning sessions, it is recommended to cut back the older branches by 1 half to 1 third of their current length. This will encourage new growth and a healthier, rejuvenated plant. Additionally, when pruning, take care to not remove more than 20% of a single branch. This will help maintain the overall shape of the henna shrub.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Henna typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between April and June.

Starts Flowering

Henna typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between April and June.

Hardiness Map