Job's Tears (Coix lacryma-jobi) is an ornamental grass known for its bead-like seeds, used in jewelry and traditional medicine. It thrives in warm, moist conditions.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, tolerates some shade.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Prefers evenly moist soil, avoid drying out completely or waterlogging.
Loam, Clay, Sand
50% intensity
Warm Conditions
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-27°C (65-80°F); sensitive to frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Job's Tears thrives in consistently moist soil. Water regularly, especially during hot, dry periods, ensuring the soil does not completely dry out.
Reduce watering in cooler months to prevent waterlogging, but maintain slight moisture. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Pruning is generally minimal for Job's Tears. Remove any dead or damaged foliage as needed to maintain a tidy appearance and improve air circulation. If plants become leggy, light trimming can encourage bushier growth.
No major structural pruning is typically required.
Job's Tears is easily propagated by seeds sown directly outdoors after the last frost, or started indoors a few weeks prior. Seeds may require scarification or soaking to improve germination rates.
Young plants can also be divided in spring if grown in clumps.
Repotting is not usually necessary for Job's Tears as it is often grown as an annual.
If grown in a container and desired to keep it for longer, repot into a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining potting mix in spring. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Job's Tears (Coix lacryma-jobi)
Where Job's Tears (Coix lacryma-jobi) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Species | Coix lacryma-jobi |
Similar in genus Coix
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
