Boenninghausenia albiflora

Family: Rutaceae

What it is like

Boenninghausenia albiflora is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 1

Where it is found

Forests and shrubberies to 3300 metres in the Himalayas. Generally found in moist places in Nepal at elevations of 500 - 3000 metres.

E. Asia - Himalayas to Japan.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 2

The leaves are pounded and applied to cuts and wounds as a styptic and to speed the healing process. They are crushed and placed in the nostrils in the treatment of malaria. The external application of the leaves is also used in the treatment of scabies. The leaf juice is dropped into wounds in order to kill germs. Applied externally to the forehead, the juice is said to relieve headaches, whilst the whole plant is placed under the pillow whilst sleeping to relieve headaches. A decoction of the root is used in the treatment of malaria.

Anodyne: Relieves pain, it is milder than an analgesic.

Malaria: Treats malaria - an acute febrile illness caused by Plasmodium parasites spread to people through the bites of mosquitos.

Parasiticide: Treats external parasites such as ringworm This should perhaps be joined with Parasiticide in

Styptic: An astringent that stops bleeding by contracting the blood vessels.

Other

Rating:

The plant contains 0.2 - 0.4% essential oils. The dried leaves are used as a flea repellent.

Essential: Essential oils that are used in perfumery, medicines, paint solvents, insect repellents etc.

Parasiticide: Kills external body parasites such as hair lice.

Repellent: Plants that are said to deter but not necessarily kill various mammals, birds, insects etc.

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

Requires a warm sheltered position in a well-drained soil that is not too dry. Plants are likely to rot if the soil remains too wet in winter. Succeeds on chalk. This species is not hardy in the colder areas of the country, it tolerates temperatures down to between -5 and -10°c. Plants are often cut to the ground in severe winters but they usually regrow from the base. It is best to give the roots a mulch in the winter. A very ornamental but short-lived plant. The leaves are very aromatic.

Propagating it: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a greenhouse in the autumn. Sow stored seed in February to May in a greenhouse. Only just cover the seed. Germination usually takes place within 1 - 3 months at 15°c. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness: 7-10

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Ruta alba