Inula conyzae 

'Ploughman's-spikenard'

[Ex. RYEDALE, NORTH YORKSHIRE, ENGLAND]

Asteraceae: an upright biennial or short lived perennial to 1m, with stems that are often tinged red. Grows in dry grassland on calcareous soils. The flowers are in ovoid heads 8-10mm long, comprising of yellow florets, and purplish and green bracts, in clusters, blooming from July-September. The leaves are basal, and recalling those of foxgloves, and narrower stem leaves. Locally common only in England and Wales. Native to Europe, North Africa, and the Near East.

USES:

The herb has antiscrofulatic, emmenagogue and vulnerary properties. The plant was considered to be a good wound herb and it was frequently taken in decoction for bruises, ruptures, internal and wounds. It was applied externally to treat itchy skin.

The leaves are burnt and used as an insecticide and parasiticide, especially against fleas. Even the smell of the plant is said to drive fleas away. The root used to be burnt upon a fire in order to scent a room.

GROWING INFORMATION:

Surface sow spring or autumn in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Succeeds in an ordinary garden soil in a sunny position. 

HARVESTED: 2023*

APPROX. 200+ SEEDS