Galeopsis tetrahit

'Common Hemp Nettle'

Lamiaceae: upright, branched, hairy-stemmed annual to 50cm, with stems that are swollen at the nodes. Found in arable fields, roadside verges, and disturbed ground. The flowers are pinkish, 15-20mm long, in whorls. Blooming from July-September. The leaves are ovate, toothed, and stalked. Native to Europe, including Britain, from Iceland and Russia to Spain and Macedonia.

USES:

The plant has antispasmodic, detergent, expectorant and resolvent properties. It is used in the treatment of tissue-wasting complaints. An infusion of the plant is used in the treatment of pulmonary complaints.

A drying oil is obtained from the seed. It is used as a polish for leather. A fibre is obtained from the stems, it is used for making cord.

GROWING INFORMATION:

Sow autumn or spring in situ. Germination usually takes place within a month. Grows in most soils, disliking heavy shade. Good bee plant.

HARVESTED:

 

APPROX. 50 SEEDS