Balm of Gilead (Cedronella canariensis), packet of 20 seeds, organic
$4.95
Family: Mint (Lamiaceae)
Hardy to Zone 9 to 12
Herbaceous perennial native to Macaronesia, including the Canary Islands. A clumper, not a spreader. The leaves are uncharacteristic to the lamiaceae–compound and shining, on sweeping stems. The plants can be quite large and densely branched, rising up 2 to 3 feet and similarly wide. Does well in pots, though. Multiple flowering racemes. The entire plant emits a citrus/camphor odor that is refreshing. I was immediately entranced by this plant when first I saw it, managed to swipe a few seeds, grew them out, and continue to be entranced by Cedronella in all its various aspects. Traditional use (TWM): tonic, decongestant, antimicrobial, for treatment of catarrh and influenza. The plant thrives in average, dryish to mesic soil, in full sun or part shade. Must be put in a pot and brought indoors to survive harsh winters. You can make cuttings from the roots stem bases, or you can collect seed if you are lucky. Scarify seed lightly on sandpaper and sow in spring. Barely cover, tamp well and keep evenly moist until germination, which tends to be slow and spotty. This is one of those plants, like Catnip, that tends to spread its seed secretly and germinate and grow when and where it wants. It is always a rare pleasure to find one growing under the benches in the greenhouse or up through that abandoned baby carriage out by the picket fence in the back yard… Space plants 2 feet apart.
20 seeds/pkt., Certified Organically Grown
In stock
Question
Somer –
Hi there. Are there any know medicinal properties to this plant? And/or is it edible?
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Richo Cech –
Hello Somer, Yes, these are nontoxic. Traditional use (TWM): tonic, decongestant, antimicrobial, for treatment of catarrh and influenza. See page 69 of “Growing Plant Medicine Vol 2” richo
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Question
Donna –
I live in zone 8a. Do I need to it up this plant and bring it inside for the winter? And if so, when is the best time to do this?
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Richo Cech –
Hello Donna, I live in a z 8 and these do not overwinter for me–i grow them like an annual. Greenhoused plants in my zone are perennial–it would be the same for you. r
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Richo Cech –
yes, these are not perennial in a zone 8. r
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Donna Floyd –
Should I cut this plant back in fall?
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Richo Cech –
yes, that is a good idea
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Akyia –
Hi Richie do you have Commiphora gileadensis?
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Richo Cech –
him akyia, we have only Commiphora mukul (guggul) available. r
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