Ageratina aromatica

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

What it is like

Ageratina aromatica is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 1.5

Where it is found

Dry woods, thickets and clearings

Eastern N. America.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

One report says that the root is aromatic and suggests that it could be edible.

Root: includes bulbs, corms, tubers, rhizomes etc.

Medicine

Rating: 1

The plant is antispasmodic, diaphoretic, diuretic and expectorant. It is used in the treatment of inflammation and irritability of the bladder, ague, pulmonary diseases, stomach complaints and nervous diseases.

Antispasmodic: Relaxes muscular spasms and cramps, calming nervous irritation.

Diaphoretic: Induces perspiration.

Diuretic: Acts on the kidneys, promoting the flow of urine.

Expectorant: Clears phlegm from the chest by inducing coughing.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

Succeeds in an ordinary well-drained but moisture retentive garden soil in sun or part shade.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a cold frame, only just covering the seed. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 4-8

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Eupatorium aromaticum. L.