Gurmar Plant Care

Gurmar (Gymnema sylvestre) belongs to the Apocynaceae family within the Gymnema genus. Gurmar is native to Asia, Africa and Australia. Gurmar is also known as Periploca of the Himalayas, Cowplant, Miracle Leaf.

Gurmar displays a vining, climbing shrub growth habit, reaching up to 6 ft tall with a spread of approximately 3 ft. Gurmar produces small, greenish-yellow clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.

Gymnema sylvestre requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Gurmar thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Gurmar in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Gymnema sylvestre grows best at temperatures of 65–80°F. Gurmar prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter for moisture retention. Good drainage is essential for Gurmar to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Gurmar every 2 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 1-2 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Gurmar can be propagated through stem cuttings, air layering. Similar propagation techniques also apply to gymnema elegans plant care, which shares the same genus.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Gurmar is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Gurmar grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10a – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 10a. Gurmar is native to Asia, Africa and Australia. In cooler regions, grow Gurmar as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.