Chinchweed, Manybristle chinchweed
Pectis papposa
Family: Asteraceae or Compositae
What it is like
Pectis papposa is a ANNUAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). It is frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained 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): 0.3
Where it is found
Sandy and clay flats from sea level to 1500 metres in deserts and creosote bush scrub in California.
South-western N. America.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
The flowers are used as a condiment. The seed can be parched, ground into a powder then used as a thickener and flavouring in soups or can be mixed with water to make a mush or porridge. Leaves - raw or cooked. The native American Indians would dip the leaves in salty water then eat them as a condiment with mush or cornmeal.
Seed: includes nuts, cereals, peas and beans.
Condiment: the various plants that are used as flavourings, either as herbs, spices or condiments.
Medicine
Rating: 1
The plant is carminative and laxative. An infusion of the blossoms has been used as eye drops in the treatment of snow blindness.
Carminative: Reduces flatulence and expels gas from the intestines.
Laxative: Stimulates bowel movements in a fairly gentle manner.
Ophthalmic: Treats eye complaints.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species. It is not frost-hardy but can be grown outdoors in Britain as a half-hardy annual and probably requires a dry to moist light or medium well-drained soil in a sunny position.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out after the last expected frosts. If you have sufficient seed it may be worthwhile trying an outdoor sowing in situ in mid to late spring.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist