Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), called Amrita or Guduchi, is a vigorous deciduous climbing shrub revered in Ayurveda as a rejuvenating immunity booster. Its glossy, heart-shaped leaves and succulent green stems are the main medicinal parts, traditionally used to support immunity, manage fevers, aid digestion and promote overall wellness. The hardy vine produces long aerial roots and small yellow flowers, and it climbs readily over trellises, walls and trees. Extremely easy to grow and almost indestructible, giloy thrives across India in most soils and climates, making it a must-have medicinal climber for home gardens.
Specifications
| Family |
Menispermaceae |
| Native region |
Indian subcontinent |
| Mature height |
Climber, several metres |
| Mature spread |
Spreading vine |
| Growth rate |
Fast |
| Foliage |
Glossy, heart-shaped, deciduous |
| Flower colour |
Yellow to greenish-yellow |
| Flower season |
Summer |
| Climate zone |
Tropical to subtropical |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Full sun to partial shade |
| Watering |
Moderate; let soil dry slightly between waterings |
| Soil / mix |
Well-drained loamy soil, tolerates most soils |
| Temperature |
20-38 C; warm climate |
| Humidity |
Tolerates a wide range |
| Fertilizer |
Minimal; occasional compost |
| Pruning |
Trim to control vigorous growth and shape |
| Repotting |
Provide support; repot every 1-2 years if potted |
| Propagation |
Stem cuttings (very easy) |
| Pests & problems |
Generally pest-resistant; rare mealybugs |
| Toxicity / safety |
Stems used medicinally; use prepared forms |
| Difficulty |
Very easy |
Uses
The stems and leaves are used in Ayurveda to boost immunity, manage fevers, support digestion and as a general rejuvenating tonic.
Growing tips
Giloy is extremely easy in Indian conditions; plant a stem cutting near a tree or trellis for support, water moderately, and it will climb vigorously with little care.