Arnica montana

'Mountain Tabacco'

[Ex. Niedere Tauern 1850 m., Austria]

Asteraceae: an aromatic fragrant perennial herb to 18–60cm. Found on calcareous soils in mountain pastures, especially on granite or siliceous soils. the flowers are composed of yellow disc florets in the centre and orange-yellow ray florets. Blooming around July. The leaves are opposed, and spear-shaped. The plant forms rhizomes, which grow in a two-year cycle. Native to Central Europe.

USES:

Arnica has a long history of herbal use, especially as an external treatment for bruises and sprains, it is an ingredient of many proprietary preparations. Internally, it has been used in the treatment of heart complaints and as a booster for the immune system. Arnica increases local blood supply and accelerates healing, it is anti-inflammatory and increases the rate of absorption of internal bleeding. Generally, the plant is nowadays only recommended for internal use as a homeopathic medicine, principally for treating shock, injury and pain. The whole plant has antiecchymotic, antiphlogistic, nervine, sternutatory, and vulnerary properties.

GROWING INFORMATION:

Rapidly germinating, keep seed in constant moisture (not wet) with temperatures of about +20°C [68°F]. Seeds must be covered thinly. Do not cover very small seeds, but tightly press into the earth. Keep in cooler conditions after germination occurs.

Prefers a moist, well-drained humus rich soil, in full sun. Succeeds in light woodland and in a rock garden or border. Plants are hardy to about -25°C. This species is declining in the wild, probably because of over-collection as a medicinal herb.

HARVESTED: 2020

 
APPROX. 30 SEEDS