Arnebia benthamii

Family: Boraginaceae

What it is like

Arnebia benthamii is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Height (m): 0.9

Where it is found

Open slopes and shrubberies, 3000 - 4300 metres.

E. Asia - Himalayas from Pakistan to W. Nepal.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 1

Cardiac and febrifuge. The plant is considered to be useful in the treatment of diseases of the tongue and throat.

Cardiac: Used in the treatment of heart problems.

Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.

Miscellany: Various medicinal actions that need more clarification.

Other

Rating:

Miscellany: A rag-bag of items that are difficult to categorise.

How it is grown

Requires a well-drained gritty soil and a sunny position in the rock garden or on a dry wall. 211075

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. Germination usually takes place within 2 - 8 weeks at 20°c. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. It is best to harvest the seed when it is slightly under-ripe, since it is quickly dispersed when ripe. Cuttings with a heel in the autumn in sand in a cold frame. Root cuttings in sand in a frame during the winter.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; South Wall. In. West Wall. In.

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 6-9

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy)

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Macrotomia benthamii.