Patchouli QT

When you google "patchouli", google provides a list of frequently asked questions regarding patchouli. Here is the current list as of January 18th, 2023:

- Why do hippies use patchouli oil?

- Is patchouli a strong scent?

- Does patchouli help you sleep?

- Why do I love the smell of patchouli so much?

And the answers:

- The hippie culture emphasized unbounded love and inclusiveness. Patchouli oil is known for its calming and libido-enhancing effect, which made it popular among the hippies.

- Patchouli oil has a strong, slightly sweet, intoxicating scent. It's described as having a dark, musky-earthy aroma profile, reminiscent of wet soil. Due to its intense scent, even when diluted, a little patchouli oil goes a long way. 

- Patchouli has compounds which act as a sedative to relax the body and help you get a better night's sleep while boosting your mood and chasing away negative feelings, anxiety and sadness. 

- It is because patchouli activates the pituitary gland of those who smell it, causing endorphin, the love hormone, to be released into their bloodstream. 

All of this is enlightening, but it doesn't answer any questions us gardeners might have about growing it as an herb.  I suppose I should have added the word "growing" to my google search. I'll leave that to you. If you've made it this far and are expecting tips on growing it, I'm sorry to disappoint. My only tip is to buy your herbs and all other plants at an independent garden center so that if you have any questions, there will be plenty of people around that will be eager and able to help you answer those questions. Hardy to Zone 10.