Lawsonia inermis, commonly called the henna tree, is a small flowering tree or large shrub in the Lythraceae family native to Australia, Asia, and northern Africa. The dried leaves are powdered and turned into a paste used as a dye to stain the skin for temporary designs, hair, fingernails, cotton, silk, and leather. Lawsone (2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone), sometimes referred to as hennotannic acid, is the chemical responsible for the red-orange pigment present in the leaves. Lawsonia inermis has also been used medicinally to treat jaundice, kidney stones, skin inflammation, and to help with wound healing. Lawsonia inermis are hardy to USDA zones 10 to 12.
Lawsonia inermis require a brief period of cold stratification for reliable germination. Place the seeds on a moist, but not soaking wet, paper towel. Fold the paper towel to contain the seeds inside and place in a ziplock bag. Place the bag in a warm area for 1 to 2 days and then place the bag in a refrigerator for 3 days. Once the 3 days of cold stratification are complete, sow the seeds on the surface of a well draining potting soil and keep moist, but not soaking wet. Place in a bright area, but not direct sunlight, and keep between 70°F and 80°F for best results. Germination typically takes 3 to 8 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
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