A hardy perennial with clusters of deeply pink flowers that attract butterflies and bees it is found growing wild in the UK in open woodlands. It was often planted around churches as it was thought to protect against sorcery and witchcraft. 9x9cm pot (8cm depth)
Description
- A useful medicinal herb
- Visited by bees and butterflies
- Easy to grow
- Native to the UK
Betony is a herb that was thought to have magical properties and was is thought to be one of the ‘nine herbs charm’ to cure infection from the tenth century Anglo Saxon Lacnunga manuscript. It is a freely flowering perennial and very popular with bees.
Plant Care
- Height: 30-60cm cm
- Type: Hardy
- Aspect: Sun/shade
- Soil: Any/alkaline
- Flower colour: Pink
- Flowering period: July - August
This lovely herb grows naturally along hedgerows, fields and open woodland and isn't too fussy about soils. In the garden the best aspect would be in dappled shade or areas with light shade and betony can be successfully grown in a pot, Over time it will produce a gorgeous clump that will reward you with spires of deep pink flowers each summer.
Usage
The traditional medicine of betony has been used since the ancient Egyptians.
It has a strong affinity with conditions of the head, notably headaches and tension.
The herb has an earthy, warming quality. It aids relaxation, relaxes muscles and supports the whole nervous system but the bitter qualities benefit digestion with their carminative action.
Harvested in the summer the whole herb can be dried to make an all year round herbal infusion.