Family:  Aster (Asteraceae)

Hardy to zones 2 to 7

(Syn.  Leuzea carthamoides)

(Leuzea, Russian Rhaponticum) Herbaceous perennial native to Siberia.  Traditional usage (TWM):  The roots and seeds considered adaptogenic, used in athletic training to enhance muscle strength without acting as a stimulant.  Also used in animal husbandry as a feed additive to increase weight gain.  Source of ecdysterones that increase the rate of  protein synthesis.  The roots are fibrous and difficult to grind and extract. Seeds are produced abundantly by the plant and may be harvested, winnowed, and ground with comparative ease.  This is similar to the way Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) is processed.  The seeds contain four times the ecdysterones than the root (2% vs 0.5% – according to Finnish research).  Seeds have become the focus of recent bioassays.  The plant is also one of the major foodstuffs of a northerly dwelling ruminant known as the “Maral Deer” (shown), which dig and eat the root during rutting season.  Plant prefers sun and regular garden soils at elevation.  Growers at low elevation should give shade–these tend to go away after a year or two if they get too hot.  Very cold hardy, with showy flowers.    The plants are quite large and should be given 1 to 2 feet between individuals.

potted plant, certified organically grown