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Reviewed public profile

Phyllanthus niruri

Phyllanthus niruri is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. Its natural range spans from southern Texas, through Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, deep into South America (including Brazil, Colombia, and Argentina). Today, it has spread globally to tropical regions of Asia and Africa. Commonly known as chanca piedra, stonebreaker, or seed-under-leaf, the herb thrives in wet, tropical lowlands and disturbed soils. It is highly regarded in folk medicine for supporting liver health and treating kidney stones.

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Growing profile

At a glance

Plant type
aroid
Size
medium 15–30cm
Light
Bright Indirect
Humidity
50%–95%

Native context

Where it belongs

Countries
Argentina, Barbados, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Maldives, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, United States, Venezuela
Ecosystems
Boreal forest (Taiga), Temperate forest, Temperate rainforest
Elevation
Lowland (0–500 m)
Flowering
Unknown

About this plant

Phyllanthus niruri is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. Its natural range spans from southern Texas, through Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, deep into South America (including Brazil, Colombia, and Argentina). Today, it has spread globally to tropical regions of Asia and Africa. Commonly known as chanca piedra, stonebreaker, or seed-under-leaf, the herb thrives in wet, tropical lowlands and disturbed soils. It is highly regarded in folk medicine for supporting liver health and treating kidney stones.

Stable BJURNY record: tx_e647b9bda831417e9bfe