Balm of Gilead (Cedronella canariensis), packet of 20 seeds, organic

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