How to Grow Crab Claw Herb - A Complete Guide

FULL GUIDE ON HOW TO GROW CRAB CLAW HERB (PEPEROMIA PELLUCIDA)

Crab claw herb, known as Peperomia Pellucida, shining bush, and rau cang cua, often grows in tropical regions. You can grow it in your garden to create a green organic source of this herb for food and tea. Learn how to grow crab claw herb (Peperomia Pellucida) and take care of this plant here.

HOW TO GROW CRAB CLAW HERB (PEPEROMIA PELLUCIDA)

I. Peperomia Pellucida Living Conditions

Rau cang cua, or shining bush, is a native herbal plant in tropical countries. Creating a favorite environment is essential for growing rau cang cua at home. Here are the standard conditions for the development of this herb.

• Soil: Crab claw herb often thrives in moist and well-drained soil. Therefore, gardeners must water this herb regularly but let the soil dry between waterings to avoid root rot. 
• Light: It requires partial shade or massive sun exposure. 
• Temperature: It can withstand temperatures ranging from 15°C to 35°C.
• Humidity: This tropical plant prefers high humidity levels.

It can be grown indoors and outdoors, making it a versatile plant option. You can plant this herb in flower pots placed on the balcony if you don’t have a garden. It’s easy to cultivate this herbal vegetable for daily meals. 

II. How To Grow Crab Claw Herb (Peperomia Pellucida)

Rau cang cua can be grown throughout the year in a warm and humid environment with partial shade. If your garden meets the standard conditions for the growth of this plant, you can start to germinate its seeds now. Learn how to grow this kind of vegetable in your garden here. 

2.1. Preparation

Preparation is always the first step before gardening. Before growing Peperomia pellucida (crab claw herb) from seeds, you should have the following materials and equipment. 

• High-quality rau cang cua seeds.
• Clean pots or containers with drainage holes.
• Well-draining soil mix (can be prepared by mixing perlite, sand, and peat moss).
• Germination pot (for indoor germination).
• Watering can or spray bottle.
• A location with bright, indirect sunlight for germination and growth.
• Humidity dome or plastic wrap to maintain moisture during germination.
• Mask and gloves to protect your hands and respiratory tract. 

You also need to prepare yourself and be patient because Peperomia pellucida seeds can take you up to 1-2 weeks to germinate. 

2.2. Operation

When everything is ready, follow these steps to grow crab claw herb from seeds. Remember to wear a mask and gloves while working with soil.  

1. Fill a small pot with the soil mix you prepared.
2. Spray water to moisten the soil mix.
3. Sprinkle shining bush seeds on the soil surface.
4. Cover the crab claw herb seeds lightly with a thin layer of soil.
5. Create a humidity dome to cover the soil to keep it moist.  
6. Keep the pot in a warm, bright location but place it away from direct sunlight.
7. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
8. Germination should occur within 7-10 days.
9. Once Peperomia Pellucida seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into separate pots once they outgrow their current container. Make sure the flower pot has drainage holes to prevent root rot. You can transplant the seedlings into the soil bed in the garden, spacing them 6-8 inches apart.
10. Continue to provide bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist.

In addition, crab claw herb is easy to propagate by stem cuttings. You can remove a stem with at least two leaves and place it in water until roots develop. Then, plant them in the 

With good care, this herb will rise healthily. You may need tips and rules to take good care of this plant. 

III. How To Take Care Of Peperomia Pellucida

After transplanting the shining bush, you have to take care of it by following these rules. Keep an eye on the development of this herb for the best crop. 

3.1. Soil & Humidity

Well-draining soil rich in organic matter is ideal for growing this herb. Peat moss and perlite are good options to add to your potting mix. 

Crab claw herb prefers high humidity. You can increase humidity by misting the seedlings or placing them on a tray with damp pebbles. 

3.2. Light & Temperature

Place the seedlings in a bright location that receives indirect sunlight. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, which can cause sunburn. 

Keep shining bush seedlings in a warm location with temperatures between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. It is easier to control the temperature when growing this herb indoors. 

3.3. Feeding & Watering

Water the seedlings regularly but do not overwater because this can lead to root rot. You should water the vegetable when the soil is dry. You should use the watering can or sprayer for gentle water rays. 

Use a balanced fertilizer to feed Peperomia Pellucida seedlings once every two weeks during the growing season. You had better use organic compost to avoid toxic substances. Plant matter, yard waste, and untreated wood chips are often safe for vegetable gardening. 

3.4. Pruning & Pest Treating

Trim back any dead or yellow leaves to encourage new growth. Pinching back the crab claw herb tips can encourage bushier growth of this herb.

Besides, watch out for pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be helpful in controlling harmful insects. Pyrethrin, spinosad, and diatomaceous earth are also safe pesticides for vegetables. Additionally, consider using natural pest control methods such as companion planting, crop rotation, and handpicking pests.

3.5. Harvesting

Peperomia Pellucida herb is ready for harvesting once it reaches a height of about 15-20 cm. The leaves and stems can be plucked and used for consumption or medicinal purposes. You can harvest it continuously as it grows back quickly after being cut. 

You can pick its leaves as needed for fresh use in soups, salads, and other dishes. This is a healthy vegetable with tons of health benefits. You can also use its leaves to make herbal tea for your family. 

IV. Where To Buy Crab Claw Herb Seeds

You can buy shining bush seeds from your local garden center or nursery. More conveniently, check with online seed retailers, such as The Rike. This US-based herb shop also offers customers various high-quality plant seeds for cultivation. 

Besides, you can purchase many processed herbs and teas for busy customers. If you want to grow other kinds of vegetables, go to the seasonal seed shop in The Rike. Contact the seller for more information about products and order procedures. 

V. Conclusion

That is how to grow crab claw herb (Peperomia Pellucida) from seeds and take care of the plant. Go to The Rike and buy high-quality shining herb seeds from this online retailer. Then, you can grow it by following this instruction. You can harvest the best crab claw herb crop from your home garden with good care.