For many of us, houseplants are more than just decoration, they’re companions. A cluster of leafy greens can brighten a room, improve air quality, and even brighten your mood on gray days. But one plant that’s gaining genuine buzz among growers and wellness lovers is Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) a succulent with centuries-old roots

What Makes Kanna Special?

Kanna isn’t your typical houseplant. It’s a succulent native to South Africa that traditionally played a role in local cultures as a calming botanical. What sets it apart from many other indoor plants is the unique chemistry in its leaves: alkaloids such as mesembrine are naturally present and have been associated with mood-related effects in both historical use and contemporary discussion. These compounds interact with serotonin pathways in the brain, which are deeply involved in emotional balance and stress response.

Because of this, many people describe Kanna and kanna extracts as having a euphoric uplift and mood boosting properties

Easy to Care For Great for Beginners

Like most succulents, Kanna is fairly forgiving, making it a fun plant for both new and experienced indoor gardeners:

Light: It loves bright light, ideally near a sunny window where it gets a few hours of direct exposure.

Watering: Let the soil dry out between waterings; overwatering is a common mistake with succulents.

Soil: A well-draining cactus or succulent mix helps prevent root rot.

If you’ve ever grown aloe or jade plants, you’re already halfway there Kanna thrives under similar conditions.

A Living Piece of Botanical History

One of the coolest things about Kanna is its cultural legacy. Indigenous peoples in South Africa used this plant for centuries, sometimes chewing the leaves, making teas, or using them in ritual contexts all with an eye toward emotional well-being and community. Today, even as it appears in herbal markets and supplement blends, cultivating the plant itself brings a sense of connection to that long botanical story.

Harvesting and Using Your Plant

For those interested in owning a starter plant, a live Kanna cutting is a simple way to begin you can check out a quality live plant like this Sceletium Tortuosum Kanna Cutting (Live Plant Clone) from Healing Herbals here:

👇 https://healingherbals.store/products/kanna-cutting-live-plant-clone

Why It’s More Than Just a Pretty Plant

Most people keep houseplants for their aesthetic or air-purifying benefits. But plants like Kanna bring something extra

Whether you’re drawn to Kanna for its traditional association with calm and focus, or you simply want something interesting and beautiful on your windowsill, it’s a plant that rewards curiosity and care.

Ready to Grow?

If you’re thinking about adding something new and meaningful to your collection, Kanna might be just the plant to help you feel good while you grow. 🌿